Context:

The Democratic Party is faced with the challenge of determining which state will lead the nominating calendar in 2028, following President Biden's decision in 2022 to prioritize South Carolina for the 2024 cycle. This reshuffling has prompted traditional early-voting states like Iowa, New Hampshire, and Nevada, as well as potential new contenders, to vie for the influential position. The decision is crucial as each state provides different advantages to candidates and affects various segments of the Democratic base. Key political figures have begun visiting these early states to assess their pathways to nomination, highlighting the strategic importance of the order. The debate over which state should lead the process reflects broader questions about the party's direction and demographic considerations, such as diversity and representation of working-class voters and voters of color, which are pivotal for future electoral success.

Dive Deeper:

• President Joe Biden's decision to make South Carolina the first primary in the 2024 election calendar has disrupted the traditional lineup of early-voting states, igniting a competition among them for the 2028 cycle. This decision underscores the strategic importance of state demographics and their influence on the Democratic nominating process.

• Iowa, traditionally the first state to vote, is advocating to reclaim its position despite the technical issues during the 2020 caucuses and losing its first-place status in 2024. Iowa Democratic leaders emphasize the state's historical significance and are preparing for competitive congressional races in 2026 to strengthen their case.

• New Hampshire, which held an unsanctioned primary in 2024 against DNC preferences, is determined to maintain its early voting status, citing state law and the importance of a level playing field in the nominating process. The state's defiance resulted in its delegates being seated despite initial threats from the DNC.

• Nevada is pushing to lead the 2028 calendar by highlighting its diverse population and working-class representation, arguing that it reflects the broader coalition needed for Democratic electoral success. The state's demographics include significant Latino, Black, and Asian communities, which are critical for engaging a wide voter base.

• South Carolina, with its influential Black voter base, is campaigning to retain the first primary position, emphasizing its role in revitalizing Biden's 2020 campaign and its strategic importance in the Democratic primary. State leaders argue that South Carolina offers a comprehensive electorate that other states cannot match.

• Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker are among the early 2028 hopefuls visiting strategic states, indicating their interest in the nomination and underscoring the importance of these early contests. Such visits provide insight into potential candidates' strategies and priorities.

• The Democratic National Committee faces a complex decision that involves balancing historical precedence, diversity, and strategic electoral considerations. The outcome of this decision will shape the landscape for the 2028 presidential nomination process and reflect the party's evolving priorities.