Democratic Party officials are engaged in internal discussions over which state should hold the first presidential primary in 2028, with several states vying to replace Iowa's traditional lead-off role. Iowa Democrats have expressed regret over the party's decision to remove the state from the early nominating calendar in 2024 and are considering resuming their lead-off caucuses in 2028, even if it means acting independently from the national party. This debate is intensifying ahead of the Democratic National Committee's upcoming annual summer meeting, with pressure mounting to finalize the 2028 primary calendar. The outcome of this decision is viewed as indicative of the party's future direction and the coalition segments it aims to prioritize.