Overview
- The Democratic National Committee’s Rules and Bylaws Committee has been meeting in Washington this week, May 26–28, to hear in-person pitches from a dozen state Democratic parties seeking early-window placement for the 2028 nominating calendar.
- New Hampshire told the committee it should be restored as the first-in-the-nation primary, citing a state law that requires it be scheduled first and arguing its many independent voters give it broad persuadable electorates.
- Iowa argued to return to first-in-the-nation caucus status and warned some state actors may hold an unsanctioned or “rogue” caucus in 2028 if the DNC rebuffs the state’s request.
- A coalition of Southern Democratic chairs urged that South Carolina remain the lead state, saying its early role centers Black voters and helps test a candidate’s ability to build winning coalitions.
- Committee co-chairs said they will prioritize racial and regional diversity and cost‑effectiveness for campaigns, and RBC members expect a formal early-state slate this summer with possible presentation to the full DNC in August though the timetable could slip.