Democrats Pick South Carolina to Lead 2028 Presidential Primary Calendar

The Democratic National Committee's Rules and Bylaws Committee voted to make South Carolina the first presidential primary state for the 2028 election cycle, scheduling its primary for January 22. The decision marks a significant shift from past schedules, prioritizing a state with a large Black voting bloc amid concerns over Supreme Court restrictions on the Voting Rights Act. South Carolina edged out Nevada, partly due to concerns about Nevada's ability to process election results quickly. The early calendar also includes Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Michigan, and Virginia. Michigan replaced Iowa as the Midwest's early state, a notable departure from decades of tradition. The vote became tense when New Mexico was scheduled before Michigan, breaking a regional representation plan. The full DNC will vote on the proposed calendar in August. The new order elevates the South and Southwest while weakening Northeast and Midwest voices, significantly shaping the 2028 nomination race.