Ken Burns Advocates for New Hampshire’s Role in the 2028 Democratic Primary Schedule

Ken Burns Advocates for New Hampshire’s Role in the 2028 Democratic Primary Schedule

NEWFIELDS, N.H. — Renowned filmmaker Ken Burns, known for his insightful documentaries that explore American history and culture, is advocating for the Democratic Party to reinstate New Hampshire as the first primary state in the 2028 presidential nominating calendar.

For over a century, New Hampshire was the initial host for presidential primaries for both major parties. Although the Republican Party adhered to this tradition in the most recent presidential race, the Democratic National Committee made the controversial decision to place South Carolina ahead of New Hampshire in its primary order.

This shift proved to be a distraction for Democrats during the 2024 primaries. As discussions for the 2028 primary calendar begin, there is a collective aim within the party to reclaim the White House following the era of term-limited Republican President Donald Trump.

On the eve of the DNC’s Rules and Bylaws Committee meeting in Puerto Rico, where applications from New Hampshire along with nearly a dozen other states to host early primaries in 2028 will be considered, Burns has taken action. He penned a letter to the committee emphasizing the importance of the citizen-driven, First-in-the-Nation primary that New Hampshire offers.

Burns, who resides in Walpole, New Hampshire, articulated in his letter, “As both a Granite Stater and a historical filmmaker, I have witnessed how New Hampshire’s First-in-the-Nation Primary has propelled our democracy forward. Especially during these challenging times, I believe New Hampshire’s citizen-led primary is vital for the future of our country.” This letter was shared with Fox News Digital.

Longtime New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley, who is a member of the DNC’s Rules and Bylaws Committee and present at the Puerto Rico meeting, praised Burns, stating, “Ken Burns is a beloved, internationally respected storyteller. With his credibility and authority, he can make a persuasive case for New Hampshire to continue its tradition of leading the early primary process.”

The Impact of New Hampshire’s Democratic Primary

Burns’ letter speaks to the unique role that New Hampshire plays within the electoral process. He argues that the state’s tradition of grassroots politics and informed electorate makes it an ideal venue for the first primary. New Hampshire’s sizable voter participation and its longtime reputation as a key swing state in general elections add to its significance in the nomination process.

Despite facing criticism over demographic representation, New Hampshire Democrats assert that the state’s political engagement and historical significance justify its position at the forefront of the primary landscape. The Democratic Party had previously criticized both New Hampshire and Iowa for their lack of diversity. As a response, Nevada and South Carolina were added to the calendar two decades ago to enhance the diversity of early voting states.

Looking Back at New Hampshire’s Electoral History

The controversy surrounding New Hampshire’s primary status heightened when the DNC altered its 2024 calendar. Placing New Hampshire second, alongside Nevada, sparked wide debate within the party. However, adhering to a nearly half-century-old law, New Hampshire Secretary of State Dave Scanlan ensured that the state retained the first primary by scheduling it for January 23, 2024, a week ahead of any similar contests.

Despite the DNC designating the primary as unsanctioned, and banning state delegates from attending the subsequent nominating convention, the situation was later rectified. The DNC reached an agreement with New Hampshire, restoring its delegates before the convention took place.

Future Considerations for the DNC

The Rules and Bylaws Committee is tasked with evaluating applications and isn’t expected to announce the 2028 primary calendar until later this year. This decision is poised to impact how candidates engage with voters and outline their platforms moving forward.

In contrast, the Republican National Committee, which met recently, reaffirmed its commitment to keeping Iowa and New Hampshire as the lead-off states for its 2028 calendar, emphasizing the longstanding traditions that have shaped these processes.

A Call to Action for Democratic Leadership

As Burns rallies behind the idea of a citizen-led primary, he emphasizes the importance of allowing voices from everyday citizens to be heard. His assertion that grassroots engagement is vital for fostering genuine democratic initiatives resonates with those who value active political participation.

Ken Burns’ advocacy encapsulates a broader sentiment among New Hampshire Democrats who argue that the state’s unique political landscape provides an essential platform for candidates to connect with voters. With the DNC set to review state applications, it will be vital to consider the historical significance and grassroots nature of New Hampshire’s primary.

The debate surrounding the early primary states continues to evolve, highlighting the diverse perspectives within the Democratic Party. For many, the upcoming decisions will shape not only the electoral dynamics of 2028 but will also influence the democratic engagement of future generations.

In addition, as we navigate this political landscape, the emphasis on inclusivity and representation remains a critical theme. Ken Burns’ impassioned message serves as a reminder of the vital role citizens play in shaping the democratic process, an essential component of our nation’s electoral tradition.