Democratic National Committee approves 2028 presidential primary calendar

The Democratic National Committee has approved a new presidential primary calendar for 2028, placing South Carolina in the lead position on January 22, 2028. This shift moves the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary from their traditional top spots.

Following South Carolina, Nevada is scheduled to vote on February 1, with New Hampshire, New Mexico, Michigan, and Virginia rounding out the early voting period throughout February. DNC Chairman Ken Martin stated the goal is to ensure candidates are “battle-tested” by campaigning before diverse communities, including Black, Latino, and union members.

While party leaders argue the new order better reflects the national electorate, some critics suggest the move serves to protect the party establishment. Observers note that South Carolina has historically acted as a firewall for establishment candidates against insurgent left-wing campaigns in previous cycles.