WASHINGTON -- Democrats are set to approve the party's 2028 presidential nominating schedule this Friday, solidifying a major departure from long-standing custom by excluding Iowa from the lead position and boosting states with more diverse populations.

South Carolina or Nevada is likely to lead the process, as both have actively sought the prominent role.

The Democratic National Committee's Rules and Bylaws Committee will make the call, subject to final approval by the full group during its August gathering.

This change stems from efforts to boost influence for states that align more closely with the party's broad voter base, especially Black and Latino communities, moving beyond the prior focus on Iowa and New Hampshire with their largely white voter rolls.

New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, viewed as a possible 2028 contender, noted that varying the sequence each cycle is a positive step rather than repeating the same order.

The outcome will influence the start of a competitive Democratic primary field. Absent a sitting president or obvious leader, early voting states may again determine which hopefuls build momentum and secure support.

Republicans have yet to finalize their own schedule and are anticipated to retain the traditional order beginning with Iowa and New Hampshire.

President Joe Biden advanced South Carolina to the forefront for the 2024 cycle after its role in reviving his 2020 bid. The state has long hosted the first Southern contest and gauged backing among Black voters.

With a wide-open primary ahead, competition over the calendar has intensified.

In May, Democratic officials from several southern states urged South Carolina to again lead, stating in a letter that it best reflects the coalitions needed for victory and acts as a guiding force for the party.

Nevada has pursued the spot with equal vigor, highlighting its mix of racial diversity, union strength and swing-state profile as a better match for today's Democratic voters.

Nevada features one of the largest Hispanic communities nationwide along with a notable Black population and the Culinary Workers Union, offering candidates an early look at key groups.

Nevada Rep. Susie Lee stated this week that the state provides a strong preview of the national electorate and would best position the party for success.

Black leaders have resisted shifting South Carolina after only one cycle, warning it would weaken Black voter influence. About one-quarter of the state's residents are Black per census data.

Rev. Al Sharpton warned that quietly sidelining South Carolina would signal that prior support was merely symbolic.

The DNC plans to choose four early states, one per region, and may consider a fifth.

Illinois, Iowa and Michigan bid for the Midwest slot, with Michigan seen as a strong option though it did not seek the overall first position.

This calendar choice marks an early step in the two-year path to the Democratic nomination.

The party has not held a fully open presidential primary without an incumbent or dominant favorite in nearly twenty years.

Potential candidates have started building ties in South Carolina through joint events with the state party, appearances with Rep. Jim Clyburn and local fundraisers.

Michigan has drawn interest as well. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg relocated there years ago and has cultivated connections, which could benefit him and others focused on competitive states if an early primary occurs there.