On a recent visit to South Carolina, Pete Buttigieg sought to reconnect with Black voters, a crucial demographic that he previously struggled to engage during his presidential campaign in 2020. Appearing at a Black church in the state, he experienced a warm reception, marked by standing ovations. Attendees acknowledged his efforts in bringing substantial federal funding to local projects as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation under President Joe Biden.
In his speech to over 200 people at an NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner, Buttigieg expressed concerns about the nation’s prospects, urging a collective embrace of a different future. He stated, “There is no such thing as again in real life. The only way out is through.” The responses he received highlighted a marked shift from his previous visit six years ago, where his fourth-place finish in the state spotlighted his challenges in connecting with Black voters.
South Carolina will serve as a pivotal state in the Democratic primaries starting in 2028, granting Black voters more influence in the nomination process. According to Jaime Harrison, former Democratic National Committee chair, any candidate must secure Black voter support to become the party nominee.
While Buttigieg has not finalized his decision regarding a 2028 presidential run, his recent visit to South Carolina, coupled with a trip to Nevada, suggests serious consideration of another campaign. In addition to these visits, he supported U.S. House candidate Nancy Lacore in Charleston, aiming to turn over a Republican-held seat.
During his time in Orangeburg, Buttigieg interacted with students at Claflin University, including third-year student Davina Perry, who found him to be a promising candidate for 2028. Perry emphasized her desire for increased representation from individuals who reflect her identity.
Buttigieg ended his day at a church dinner in Orangeburg, a predominantly Black community with strong Civil Rights Movement roots. Local leaders praised his role in securing a $22.7 million federal grant for the Railroad Corner project aimed at revitalizing the city’s downtown. In his speech, Buttigieg linked the nation’s economic struggles with the need for political system reform.
The evolving political climate in South Carolina reflects changes since 2020. Buttigieg’s gestures indicate his intent to propose solutions for national challenges and demonstrate his accomplishments in various projects under Biden’s administration.
As Democratic frontrunners prepare for 2028, others, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, U.S. Representative Ro Khanna of California, and U.S. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey have also made early visits to the state. Former Vice President Kamala Harris, too, retains strong connections there.
This early involvement reflects the landscape changes since 2020, when Biden used his South Carolina victory to propel his campaign against Trump. Following Trump’s win against Harris, concerns rose among Black leaders, signaling a setback for their community.
Recent Supreme Court decisions have weakened parts of the Voting Rights Act, posing threats to Black political representation. Buttigieg addressed this issue directly, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to undermine African American political power.
While Buttigieg’s trip to South Carolina marks a positive beginning, as stated by Harrison, potential candidates must continuously engage with voters to demonstrate their dedication.