The Democratic National Committee is prioritizing states that can create a “rigorous, efficient and fair” nominating contest as the party considers the order of its 2028 presidential primary calendar ahead of what's expected to be a wide-open race for the White House.
The DNC’s Rules and Bylaws Committee has opened the application process for states that want to be part of the early nominating window in 2028, emphasizing the need to create a system that elevates viable candidates who can win a general election.
“As we go through this process the real question we face is asking each state why including them in the early window, prewindow period, helps us elect a Democratic president and win the election,” committee member Stuart Appelbaum said at a Monday, Oct. 27, meeting. “That is the prime criteria that we will be looking at in making our decision.”
The committee approved a resolution Oct. 27 that will open a request for proposals from states that wish to hold their presidential primary or caucus ahead of Super Tuesday. Those states must submit their plans to the committee by Jan. 16, 2026.
Iowa Democrats are still toying with going first regardless of what the DNC decides. New Hampshire has signaled it will do the same.
