Democrats Revise Primary Calendar, Elevate South Carolina

On September 2, 2026, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) announced a significant change in the primary calendar. They decided that South Carolina will host the first presidential primary in 2028.

This marks a departure from the tradition of starting with Iowa and New Hampshire. South Carolina, a key state in the Deep South, now gains prominence in shaping the Democratic presidential race.

The decision follows years of deliberation by the DNC. At their summer meeting, they assessed the potential benefits of prioritizing practicality in the primary schedule.

The move acknowledges South Carolina’s notable influence in selecting presidential candidates. It reflects the state’s unique position within the Democratic Party, as observed in past elections, like Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 South Carolina primary, which was pivotal for his campaign.

This calendar adjustment highlights a strategic shift towards a pragmatic approach, setting a new course for the Democratic primary process.