The Democratic National Committee's Rules and Bylaws Committee voted Friday to place South Carolina first in the 2028 presidential primary lineup. The decision prioritizes a state with a large Black voting bloc over other contenders including Nevada.
The panel set South Carolina's primary for Jan. 22, 2028. Nevada will follow, along with New Hampshire, New Mexico, Michigan and Virginia. Only these six states may hold contests before Super Tuesday on March 7, 2028.
The full DNC is scheduled to vote on the calendar at its August meeting in Austin. Committee members cited concerns over Nevada's ability to process results quickly and a desire to strengthen Black voting power in the South after recent Voting Rights Act changes.
South Carolina Democratic Party chair Christale Spain said the choice shows the party is serious about investing in the South. Rep. Debbie Dingell of Michigan noted that the early states together represent the party's diversity.
The proposed order marks a shift from earlier cycles that traditionally began with Iowa and New Hampshire.
