Full Breakdown
Democrats Begin Shaping 2028 Presidential Primary Calendar
1/31/2026, 11:02:08 PM
Overview of the 2028 Primary Calendar Development
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is in the early stages of establishing its 2028 presidential primary calendar, having invited twelve state parties to formally submit bids for early nominating contests. This decision was made during a recent meeting in Puerto Rico, where party leaders emphasized the need to refresh the nominating process following a tumultuous 2020 primary and a disappointing election outcome. The DNC aims to select one state from each of its four regions to hold an early contest, with the possibility of adding a fifth state from any region.
States Competing for Early Primary Slots
The states vying for early primary positions include traditional early states like South Carolina, Iowa, and New Hampshire, alongside swing states such as Georgia and North Carolina. In the Eastern region, New Hampshire and Delaware are competing, while the Midwest features Iowa and Michigan. The Southern region includes South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Nevada and New Mexico are contenders from the Western region, with Nevada being a historic early state known for its significant Latino population.
Political Dynamics and Challenges
The process of selecting early primary states is complicated by the need for some states, particularly Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee, to gain bipartisan support for any changes to primary dates. Historically, Democrats and Republicans have aligned their primary calendars, but recent years have seen a divergence. The DNC is now considering a calendar that reflects its values and effectively prepares candidates for the general election.
Voices from the Community
Ken Burns, a prominent filmmaker from New Hampshire, has publicly urged the DNC to restore his state’s traditional lead-off primary status. In a letter to the DNC's Rules & Bylaws Committee, Burns highlighted the importance of New Hampshire's citizen-led primary in fostering democratic engagement. He stated, “For in the strength of everyday citizens, there is no better or equal hope in our world.” Longtime New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley echoed Burns' sentiments, noting the filmmaker's influence and respect within the party.
Criticism of Current Primary Structure
Despite the push for a more diverse primary calendar, some party members have criticized the DNC's previous decisions. The removal of New Hampshire from its traditional first-in-the-nation status in 2024 was met with resistance, as many argue that the state's grassroots political culture and high voter participation make it an ideal location for early primaries. Critics within the party have raised concerns about the representation of diverse communities in the primary process, particularly in states like Iowa and New Hampshire, which have predominantly white populations.
What's Next for the DNC
The DNC's Rules and Bylaws Committee is expected to finalize the 2028 primary calendar later this year. As the party navigates the complexities of state applications and political dynamics, the outcome will significantly impact the strategies and narratives leading into the next presidential election.
Verbatim Quotes
- “For in the strength of everyday citizens, there is no better or equal hope in our world.” — Ken Burns, Filmmaker
- “ "Ken makes a powerful statement in support of New Hampshire’s presidential primary that will resonate with my colleagues," Buckley predicted.” — Ray Buckley, New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair
