(CBS) Columbia, S.C.—The South Carolina Democratic primary is more than 250 days away, but that won't stop at least 22 presidential hopefuls from packing into the Palmetto State this weekend.
Democratic White House contenders will descend on Columbia Friday and Saturday for Rep. James Clyburn's "World Famous Fish Fry" and for the state Democratic Party convention — the first time since the start of the 2020 campaign cycle that so many candidates are gathered at the same time.
The state's "First in the South" primary on Feb. 29, 2020, is critical for Democratic presidential candidates, in large part due to the diversity of the state's electorate. As with the larger Democratic primary, winning depends in large part on support from the African American community.
During the 2008 cycle, South Carolina officially became an early state. This move elevated the Fish Fry to national prominence during a presidential election year and solidified its role as an unofficial requirement for anyone vying for the Democratic nomination for president.
"This Fish Fry continues to be a way to honor those who dedicate their time and talents in support of Democratic candidates," said Clyburn in a statement. "It also provides some ordinary voters, a beyond-the-ordinary opportunity, to meet some extraordinary presidential candidates."
More news at CBSNEWS.com