Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear Embarks on South Carolina Tour

Greenville, SC – Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear Launches South Carolina Tour

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear commenced a tour of South Carolina on July 16, 2025, aimed at strengthening connections with Democratic Party leaders and representatives from the labor movement. The tour kicked off at the AFL-CIO convention in Greenville, attended by various labor organization representatives, including the Communication Workers of America and the International Longshoremen’s Association.

Focus on Labor and Unity

Beshear’s tour takes him through key locations, including Columbia, Charleston, and Georgetown County. His visit was spurred by invitations from the AFL-CIO and the Georgetown County Democratic Party, emphasizing his intent to be a pragmatic force in politics and to focus on the current political climate. Furthermore, he mentioned personal motivations for the trip, including attending his son’s baseball game.

State of Unionization

During his address at the AFL-CIO convention, Beshear highlighted South Carolina’s significantly low unionization rate of approximately 2.8%, contrasting it with Kentucky, where union membership has notably increased despite similar anti-union legislation. His acknowledgment of this disparity underscored the need for a stronger labor movement in South Carolina.

Polling and Political Strategy

Beshear previously won the Kentucky gubernatorial race in 2019 against Republican incumbent Matt Bevin by a narrow margin of less than 0.5% and secured reelection in 2023 by defeating Daniel Cameron by a margin of 5%. He attributes his electoral achievements to a steadfast commitment to compassion, empathy, and addressing the needs of constituents. Beshear argues that focusing on the everyday concerns of voters and articulating the rationale behind Democratic values is vital for building a solid voter base.

Addressing Voter Concerns

Beshear cautioned against the Democratic Party concentrating too much on advocacy language rather than directly engaging with voter concerns. His speech at the convention underscored the rising popularity of unions across the nation and included critiques of former President Trump and Republican policies that he contends fail rural voters.

Key Areas for Democratic Strategy

He outlined three pivotal areas for the Democratic Party’s strategy moving forward: jobs, healthcare, and education. This emphasis aligns with the party’s goal of resonating with voters across the political spectrum and building a coalition that includes Democrats, Republicans, and Independents.

Building Connections Ahead of Primaries

Beshear’s tour is viewed as part of a larger strategy to forge connections with voters in South Carolina, a state that plays a crucial role in presidential primary elections. The Governor is expected to travel extensively, promoting a message rooted in common sense and unity.

Local Political Landscape

The tour also spotlights upcoming local elections in South Carolina, including three Greenville City Council seats and a special election in Spartanburg County. Several local Democratic leaders and political figures were present at a reception hosted by Greenville City Councilmember Michelle Shain following the convention.

Following in the Footsteps of Others

Beshear’s visit comes after similar tours by other Democratic figures, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and U.S. Representative Ro Khanna, reinforcing a growing trend among Democrats seeking to bolster their visibility and appeal in southern states.