Dems' primary plan gives Native Americans more power

The 2028 Democratic primary race could significantly impact Native American voters for the first time, with New Mexico being a key battleground state. New Mexico holds the 3rd largest share of American Indian or Alaska Native people in the nation, and it includes 23 federally recognized tribes. The early primary date in New Mexico on Feb. 15, 2028, means that Native Americans, who make up about 12% of the state, could wield unprecedented influence in the presidential nomination process.

Deb Haaland, the former U.S. interior secretary, explained that Native Americans could be a major factor in determining the nominee. Native leaders and their allies believe that presidential candidates will need to engage closely with tribal governments, addressing issues like tribal sovereignty, land and water rights, and rural infrastructure. Several potential candidates are already adjusting their strategies to learn more about Native voters and tribal dynamics.

Key governors and senators, including Illinois' JB Pritzker and New Jersey's Cory Booker, have expressed their desire to learn more about tribal leadership. Haaland, who is running for governor of New Mexico this year, is also being courted by potential presidential candidates. She met with Booker and is set to rally with former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Haaland remains cautious about endorsing a candidate, stating, "I would wait to see." Democrats hope that by putting New Mexico early in the primary lineup, they can better connect with Native American voters and potentially reverse the trend of this demographic shifting towards other parties in recent elections.