Democrats approve new primary election calendar, putting South Carolina first
The Democratic National Committee has recommended a new primary calendar for 2028 that places South Carolina first to better represent Black voters. The proposal, which still requires final approval, also includes Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Michigan, and Virginia as early-voting states.
Why it matters
Changing the primary calendar significantly alters the influence of specific demographic groups and regional interests in the presidential nomination process.
South Carolina was chosen to hold the first Democratic presidential primary in 2028 after a panel voted on the calendar Friday afternoon. The move was pushed by key Democrats to prioritize Black voters, a reliable and influential voting bloc for the party.
The Democratic National Committee's Rules and Bylaws panel recommended South Carolina vote first over Nevada, New Hampshire and Iowa, who had each been seeking the first spot. Only six states will be permitted to hold primaries before Super Tuesday on March 7, 2028.
The order recommended by the panel is South Carolina's primary, to be held on Jan. 22, 2028, followed by Nevada and New Hampshire, which are typically early voting states. New Mexico, Michigan and Virginia would also be permitted to hold early contests. This calendar will be presented to the full DNC in August, to be voted on and finalized.
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