(LANSING) - Michigan has taken a key step toward securing a prominent role in the 2028 presidential nomination process.
The Democratic National Committee's Rules and Bylaws Committee has approved the Michigan Democratic Party's case to hold an early presidential primary in 2028. The decision came after committee members reviewed bids from 12 states during meetings held this weekend in Puerto Rico.
Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel said an early primary would give presidential candidates a meaningful opportunity to engage with voters in a politically competitive and demographically diverse state.
"It's crucial that our new national calendar for selecting the next president includes Michigan in an early position," Hertel said.
The bid received strong backing from top Democratic leaders in the state, including Gretchen Whitmer, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, and House Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri. Supporters highlighted Michigan's mix of urban, suburban and rural communities, as well as its role as a battleground state in recent national elections.
Michigan's 2028 presidential primary is currently scheduled for Feb. 22, 2028, a date that falls within the Democratic Party's designated early window.
Final decisions on the 2028 primary calendar are expected as the Democratic National Committee continues reviewing and refining its nomination process ahead of the next presidential cycle.