2020 hopeful Kirsten Gillibrand immerses herself in South Carolina

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York immersed herself in South Carolina over the weekend, using her first trip to the state to introduce herself as a possible presidential candidate to the heavily black Democratic electorate.

From a house party and Main Street market to “chicken and waffles” and worship, Gillibrand’s stops encompassed a broad universe of Democrats in this early voting state who are crucial to candidates seeking the party’s nomination for president.

Three days is a significant time investment at this stage in the campaign, as a wide field of candidates sprint among early voting states to raise their profiles and attempt to differentiate themselves. Gillibrand’s visit culminated with visits to several black churches in North Charleston, where she spoke about the importance of faith.

At a Saturday luncheon organized by the daughter of House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, Gillibrand introduced herself to about two-dozen attendees, mostly women, giving her viewpoints on environmental issues, health care reform and education disparities.

“I think America’s up to the challenge” of addressing those issues, she said, “but we just need leadership.”