Democrats Expected to Approve South Carolina as First Primary in 2028, But Other States Push Back

Democratic leaders are expected to formally approve South Carolina as the inaugural state in the party's 2028 presidential primary calendar this week. The decision is slated to be finalized during a crucial meeting of party officials in Austin, Texas.

This move would solidify South Carolina's position at the front of the line, a significant shift from previous cycles where Iowa and New Hampshire traditionally held the early spots. The selection of South Carolina is seen by many as a strategic choice aimed at prioritizing states with more diverse electorates.

However, the proposed calendar is not without its challenges. Reports indicate that several other states are pushing back against the finalized order. This resistance suggests potential internal friction within the Democratic Party regarding the sequencing of primaries and the criteria used for selection. The exact nature of these pushbacks and the states involved remain to be detailed.