Overview
- The DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee approved an application process for up to four or five pre–Super Tuesday contests, with states to submit formal proposals by Jan. 16, 2026 before an initial review and invitations to present.
- Committee co-chairs pledged a fair and transparent process designed to produce a battle-tested nominee capable of winning back the White House.
- New Hampshire Democrats, led by state chair Ray Buckley, formally argued for restoring the state’s first primary role, pointing to civic participation and a state law that requires New Hampshire to hold the earliest primary.
- Nevada Democrats asserted the state should go first, saying it uniquely satisfies the committee’s new criteria; other states are signaling interest as potential 2028 contenders begin early-state visits.
- Members stressed that applicants must show legislative and election-official support to move dates or run contests, with enforcement penalties for calendar violations to be finalized in early 2026 and a final early-state lineup expected in 2026.