US Democrats finalise major shakeup to 2028 presidential primary calendar

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has approved a significant shakeup to its 2028 presidential primary calendar. South Carolina will now lead the nominating contests, beginning January 22, 2028, pushing Iowa from its traditional first position. This change aims to give greater influence to more racially diverse states, including Nevada and New Mexico, which have substantial Latino populations, and South Carolina, with its significant Black voter demographic. The DNC believes this new calendar will better reflect the overall diversity of the United States and position the party to win the White House. While this shift formalizes a trend from the 2024 cycle, it has faced past controversy from states like New Hampshire and Iowa, which have historically held early primary status.

The Democratic National Committee is meeting in Austin, Texas, to finalize the 2028 presidential primary calendar. The proposed calendar frontloads states with more diverse populations, with South Carolina slated to hold the first primary on January 22, followed by Nevada on February 1. This shift aims to give greater influence to states reflecting the party's coalition, particularly Black and Latino voters, moving away from the traditional early states of Iowa and New Hampshire. The decision has drawn criticism from Iowa and New Hampshire officials. The meeting also occurs amid internal party discussions about DNC Chairman Ken Martin's leadership and the party's fundraising challenges.