5 tips for Democratic presidential candidates visiting South Carolina | Opinion

To every Democrat considering a run for president, welcome to South Carolina — ground zero for the Democratic Party’s future.

Over the past few months, I’ve noticed a familiar rhythm return to our state: national political figures flying in, visiting churches, hosting town halls and making quiet visits to community leaders. Many are here to support down-ballot races or rebuild party infrastructure. But let’s be honest: Some are testing the waters for a presidential run.

And they should.

Because if history teaches us anything, it’s that South Carolina Democrats don’t just participate. South Carolina Democrats decide.

For years, South Carolina has played a critical role in selecting the Democratic Party’s nominee through the “first-in-the-South” Democratic presidential primary. But in 2023, in a historic shift, the Democratic National Committee gave us the honor of hosting the first primary in the nation in the 2024 presidential election.

That move was more than symbolic. It was strategic. It signaled that our state’s diverse, Black-led Democratic electorate is finally being recognized for what it has always been: the beating heart of the Democratic Party.

With that honor comes responsibility — and reality.

Every aspiring 2028 candidate should know this isn’t a photo-op state. You don’t just stop by, snap a few pictures, and jet out. South Carolina will test your patience, your message, your stamina and your soul.

So before you fill your schedule with fish fries and football games, let me offer some words of wisdom.

1. Kindness is currency.

In the South, we speak to everyone — regardless of race, background or party. If you walk into a room and only engage donors or influencers, don’t expect a warm welcome. Respect is non-negotiable here. Say hello. Shake hands. Make eye contact. It’s not about formality. It’s about basic humanity.

2. Relationships matter.

While endorsements matter, the most influential ones come from those who are not elected. In South Carolina, the people who move votes often hold no official title. They lead churches. They mentor youth. They run civic clubs and community centers. They cut hair, teach children and organize food drives after work. If you don’t know them, take time to meet them — and listen. Because when it’s time to decide, their word holds weight.

3. Be authentic.

We have a strong spirit of discernment here. If you’re saying what you think we want to hear, we’ll know. If your platform changes depending on your audience, we’ll notice. South Carolinians appreciate straight talk and consistent values. Be clear, be real and be yourself. You don’t need to perform. We’re looking for conviction, not choreography.

4. Fly-by-nighters don’t win.

If your South Carolina “strategy” involves one rally in Columbia, a quick photo at a Charleston church and a scripted stump speech in Greenville before boarding a private flight, save yourself the trouble. We value presence. Voters here want to look you in the eyes, shake your hand and ask a question without needing a press pass. If you’re not willing to put in the time on the ground, then perhaps you’re not ready for the Oval Office.

5. Talk solutions.

We know the problems: health care deserts, underfunded schools, crumbling rural infrastructure and economic inequality. What we’re looking for are solutions. Tell us your plan to fix what’s broken and expand what’s working. Don’t recite talking points. Give us answers that can survive in real people’s lives, not just campaign commercials.

South Carolina is no longer a political pit stop. It’s the proving ground for any Democrat who wants to lead this country. If you can earn the trust of voters here — Black, rural, working-class and faith-driven — you can resonate with America as a whole.

So to every Democrat with White House ambitions: Before you hire a pollster or roll out your slogan, come walk the dirt roads, visit the barber shops, attend the church services and talk to the everyday people who’ve carried this party through its toughest times. The road to the White House runs through South Carolina.

State Rep. Hamilton Grant represents District 79 in Richland County.

This story was originally published August 7, 2025 at 5:00 AM.