The outcomes of these state contests will significantly shape the Democratic nomination landscape and reflect the party's strategic priorities moving forward.

Upcoming events in South Carolina, including a major fundraising dinner featuring prominent Democratic figures, will further bolster the state's case for being first in the nation.

Former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg is making a return to public events in Iowa, marking his first appearance since stepping down as transportation secretary, as he aims to build on his previous caucus success.

The competition among these states underscores broader questions about the Democratic Party's direction and its efforts to engage various segments of its voter base.

As the Democratic Party prepares for the 2028 presidential election, a critical decision looms regarding which state will hold the first primary, following President Joe Biden's 2022 reshuffle that elevated South Carolina ahead of traditional early-voting states like Iowa and New Hampshire.

Nevada's Democratic leaders are advocating for their state to secure the first primary slot, emphasizing its diverse population and labor representation as essential for reflecting the party's broad coalition.

New Hampshire Democrats are reinforcing their position after successfully conducting an unsanctioned primary in early 2024, despite threats from the Democratic National Committee, and are committed to fighting for their early voting status.

Former U.S. Representative Dave Nagle has urged Iowa to assert its claim to first-in-the-nation status, citing historical alliances and the state's past successes in maintaining this position.

State officials from Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina are actively positioning themselves to reclaim early voting status for 2028, as the Democratic National Committee has yet to finalize the order of primaries.

There is mounting pressure on the Democratic National Committee to finalize the primary order, with candidates already making appearances in early-voting states to establish their presence.

Biden's initiative for a more diverse primary calendar was a response to Iowa's predominantly white electorate, which is approximately 90% white according to census data.

With the traditional Iowa caucus process altered, Iowa Democrats are now focusing on regaining competitiveness in upcoming congressional elections rather than solely on the presidential primary.