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2h ago

DNC Names South Carolina First in Reshaped 2028 Primary Calendar

Centering Black and Latino voters, the change broadens early tests for candidates and gives the DNC new tools to punish states that break the schedule.

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin on Aug. 13, 2026, in Austin, Texas.
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Overview

  • The Democratic National Committee voted to finalize the early-state lineup on Aug. 15, 2026, placing South Carolina first on Jan. 22, 2028 and adding Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Michigan and Virginia to the early window.
  • The approved schedule sets firm dates for each early contest and expands the pre–Super Tuesday slate from four to six states to force nominees to win across different regions and demographics.
  • The DNC approved tougher enforcement measures that include stripping delegates and imposing fines for states that hold unsanctioned contests, a step meant to deter repeat defiance like New Hampshire’s 2024 early primary.
  • Iowa and New Hampshire immediately objected to the change, with New Hampshire’s state law requiring a first-in-the-nation primary posing a likely legal and political flashpoint for 2028.
  • Campaigns will face new strategic choices because early contests now favor states with larger Black and Latino electorates, which could alter where candidates spend time, raise money, and build early momentum.