Democratic Governors to Address SC State Convention
Two prominent Democratic governors are scheduled to speak at the South Carolina Democratic Party’s annual two-day convention in Columbia. Maryland Governor Wes Moore will address the Palmetto Blue Dinner on May 30, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will deliver the keynote on May 31.
The state party chairperson indicated that Moore and Walz were chosen due to their increasing national prominence. Moore’s work in Maryland and his emergence as a young Democratic leader were highlighted. Walz served as the Democratic Party’s 2024 vice presidential nominee.
The convention, held at the state fairgrounds, will also see the selection of party officers for the upcoming year, with current chair Christale Spain running unopposed for reelection. A total of 1,758 delegates from across the state will attend, representing their county’s interests.
A county Democratic Party Chair emphasized the importance of the convention for familiarizing new members with the party’s platform and candidates, noting the value of being among like-minded individuals in a minority political setting.
Despite South Carolina’s consistent Republican presidential vote since 1980 (nearly 60% voted for Donald Trump in 2024), party officials believe the convention offers a crucial opportunity to strategize and expand the party’s base. Delegates will vote on the party’s resolution and convention rules, which outline stances on key issues, including advocating for national legislation like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Affordable Care Act, and state-level priorities such as improved early childhood education access and Medicaid expansion.
