WASHINGTON – The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is on the verge of finalizing a significant change to its 2028 presidential nominating schedule, marking a departure from the traditional early-state lineup that has long included Iowa at the forefront. This strategic shift aims to elevate the voices of more racially diverse states, reflecting the Democratic Party’s commitment to inclusivity.
South Carolina and Nevada are currently vying for the coveted first-in-the-nation position, with both states actively campaigning for this influential role in the nominating process.
The DNC’s Rules and Bylaws Committee’s decision will be subject to approval by the full committee during an upcoming meeting scheduled for August. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the party’s effort to ensure that the nominating process reflects its diverse coalition, particularly emphasizing the voices of Black and Latino voters.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, a prominent progressive voice and potential candidate for 2028, expressed approval of the change, stating, “I think that it is good that we don’t take the order for granted, and just copy and paste it every cycle.”
This proposed overhaul is particularly significant as it comes during a time when the Democratic primary is expected to be highly competitive, with no incumbent or clear frontrunner in sight. The states that are selected to vote first will have a substantial impact on which candidates can gain momentum, attract donors, and emerge as viable contenders.
In contrast, the Republican Party is expected to maintain its traditional early-state lineup, including Iowa and New Hampshire, which have historically played a central role in shaping the presidential nomination process.
Competitive Landscape: South Carolina vs. Nevada
South Carolina has previously been a critical testing ground for candidates seeking support from Black voters. President Joe Biden successfully advocated for the state to take the lead in the 2024 calendar after its pivotal role in reviving his campaign in 2020.
As Democrats prepare for a wide-open primary, the debate over the calendar has intensified. In May, leaders from southern states rallied to ensure South Carolina’s position, arguing that it provides an essential environment for candidates to build coalitions that reflect the Democratic base.
Conversely, Nevada has made a compelling case for its place at the top, highlighting its racial diversity, strong labor presence, and status as a battleground state. With one of the largest Hispanic populations in the country and a notable Black electorate, Nevada presents a unique opportunity for candidates to engage with key Democratic constituencies early in the process.
Concerns About Representation
The conversation surrounding the nominating calendar is not without contention. Some Black leaders have voiced concerns that sidelining South Carolina after just one cycle could undermine the influence of Black voters within the party. Rev. Al Sharpton articulated this sentiment, stating, “If South Carolina gets quietly bumped after one cycle of convenient praise, that sends a message louder than any speech at a Democratic dinner: the gratitude was performance, not policy.”
The DNC is considering selecting four early states from different regions of the country, with a potential fifth state under discussion. For the Midwest, states like Illinois, Iowa, and Michigan are vying for recognition, with Michigan emerging as a strong contender.
Looking Ahead: The Road to 2028
This upcoming decision will be one of the first major milestones in a highly anticipated race toward the Democratic nomination. With the absence of an incumbent, the 2028 cycle is expected to be one of the most dynamic in recent memory.
As potential candidates begin to lay the groundwork in key states, including South Carolina and Michigan, they are engaging with local party leaders and voters in preparation for what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable primary season.
