Key facts
- South Carolina will remain the first state to hold a Democratic presidential primary in 2028.
- The Democratic National Committee's Rules & Bylaws Committee voted to keep South Carolina in the top spot.
- Nevada, which has a significant Latino electorate, had also vied for the first primary position.
- The decision prioritizes the influence of Black voters, a key demographic for the Democratic Party.
- The selections must still be confirmed by the full DNC.
Democrats have voted to keep South Carolina as the first state to hold their presidential primary in 2028, a decision that prioritizes the state's significant Black voting bloc. The Democratic National Committee's Rules & Bylaws Committee narrowly approved South Carolina for the coveted first position with 26 votes to Nevada's 19. Nevada, which has a substantial Latino electorate and strong union presence, had also vied for the early spot. The selections, which include Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Michigan, and Virginia following South Carolina, must still be confirmed by the full DNC next month. This move continues a shift away from traditionally white states like Iowa and New Hampshire that previously held early primary positions, reflecting the party's increasing reliance on minority voters. Congressman James Clyburn advocated for South Carolina, citing its demographics and media market, while Nevada Democratic chair Daniele Monroe-Moreno highlighted her state's coalition potential. The early states are chosen for their role in shaping the presidential nomination race and their potential to reflect the party's diverse base.