South Carolina is set to host the first Democratic presidential primary in 2028 after a DNC rules committee vote.

The Democratic National Committee's Rules and Bylaws Committee recommended South Carolina to hold the first presidential primary of 2028, prioritizing the state's large Black voter base. The committee voted 26 to 19 in favor of South Carolina over Nevada, while New Hampshire received only four votes to remain first. The new calendar will be presented to the full DNC for a final vote in August. The move shifts the focus from traditional white-majority states to more diverse populations. South Carolina advocates argued the change honors the party's faithful Black voters, especially following a Supreme Court decision that impacted the Voting Rights Act. Conversely, Nevada supporters highlighted the state's importance for Latino and working-class voters. While the DNC intends to enforce the new order, New Hampshire officials noted that state law requires the Granite State to hold its primary first. New Hampshire leaders expressed disappointment, suggesting the DNC may be overreaching. Candidates who ignore the official calendar could face penalties, including being stripped of delegates or barred from official party debates.

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