Pete Buttigieg Courts South Carolina’s Black Voters Ahead of Potential 2028 Run

Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. transportation secretary, spent a weekend in South Carolina meeting Black voters in a city that is roughly three-quarters Black. At an NAACP Freedom Fund dinner attended by more than 200 people, he received a standing ovation after being credited with securing a $22.7 million federal grant for the “Railroad Corner” downtown revitalization project—a grant highlighted by Orangeburg Mayor Michael Butler. Buttigieg also raised money in Charleston alongside congressional candidate Nancy Lacore.

Associated Press

In 2020, Buttigieg’s fourth-place finish in South Carolina’s Democratic primary underscored his difficulty connecting with Black voters, a shortfall that contributed to the end of his presidential bid. The state’s early-voting status for the 2028 Democratic primary is intended to amplify Black electoral power, making the South Carolina electorate a pivotal testing ground for any prospective nominee.

Associated Press

Democratic Party officials emphasized the need for sustained engagement. Former DNC chair Jaime Harrison warned that a single visit is insufficient, urging candidates to “listen” and maintain a presence. Orangeburg Mayor Michael Butler praised Buttigieg’s message about “the kitchen table” and expressed optimism that the secretary’s proposals could help the community survive current challenges. Local NAACP leaders and other Black officials highlighted the importance of addressing recent threats to voting rights, including a Supreme Court decision that weakened a core provision of the Voting Rights Act.

Associated Press

• “There is no such thing as again in real life. The only way out is through,” — Buttigieg

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• “You need to demonstrate that you can win Black voters,” — Jaime Harrison, a former Democratic National Committee chair and South Carolina Democratic Party chairman

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• “Secretary Pete has definitely put himself on my radar for 2028 now, for sure,” — Davina Perry

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• “He is responsible for the Railroad Corner,” — Orangeburg Mayor Michael Butler, said orangeburg mayor

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• “You got to go listen. You got to go all over the place,” — Jaime Harrison, a former Democratic National Committee chair and South Carolina Democratic Party chairman

Associated Press

• “It has to be a good start and then you got to continue,” — Jaime Harrison, a former Democratic National Committee chair and South Carolina Democratic Party chairman

Associated Press

The outreach signals Buttigieg’s attempt to rebuild trust with Black voters ahead of a likely 2028 presidential run. Success in South Carolina could shape the early dynamics of the Democratic nomination, especially as the state’s electorate seeks candidates who can both deliver tangible federal investments and confront broader concerns about voting-rights erosion and economic inequality.

Associated Press