Gov. Gavin Newsom, fresh off a trip to South Carolina to test his political appeal ahead of a likely presidential run, announced Friday that California is creating a new agency to consolidate the state’s efforts to confront two of its most pressing challenges: lowering housing costs and helping people off the streets.

Gov. Gavin Newsom of California met with Democratic voters in an early primary state that has become pivotal in presidential races.

South Carolina Democratic Party chairman challenged Gavin Newsom to explain California's homelessness and social safety net failures before considering a presidential run.