Dems pick South Carolina to lead 2028 primary calendar
The state edged Nevada to be first, marking a major shift from past primary schedules
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) voted to prioritize South Carolina as the first presidential primary state for the 2028 election, marking a significant change from previous election cycles. This decision, made by the Rules and Bylaws Committee, scheduled South Carolina's primary for January 22, followed by primaries in Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Michigan, and Virginia.
The move came in response to concerns about the ability of Nevada to rapidly process election results and to strengthen Black voting power in the South after recent judicial decisions that restricted the Voting Rights Act. Michigan took the spot previously held by Iowa on the Midwest early state calendar. The decision sparked frustration among Midwestern members of the DNC, who argued that the regions' initial order should be respected.
New Mexico was added as a first-time early-state host, but its primary is set for February 15, before Michigan's. The new calendar shifts focus to the South and Southwest, which have substantial Black and Latino populations, while downplaying the influence of Democrats from the Northeast and Midwest.
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