Nevada Candidates Bank on Early Primaries Amidst National Campaign Shifts
Democratic figures have begun courting voters in the Silver State, while Republicans adopt a cautious approach due to President Trump's influence.
By Samuel Hayes ·
The 2028 presidential race is already generating activity in Nevada, where the state is one of the first to hold nominating events for both major parties. This early position has prompted high-profile politicians to visit the state well before the official election year begins.
For Democrats, the primary season starts in South Carolina on January 22, 2028. Nevada follows on February 1. Republicans hold their third event in the cycle, after Iowa and New Hampshire. This schedule places the Silver State at the front of the national political calendar.
Democratic officials have increased their presence in Nevada over the past several months. Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona visited three times, attending the Washoe Dems annual fundraiser and The Nevada Independent’s IndyFest. Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky also appeared at events supporting Aaron Ford’s gubernatorial campaign and congressional Democrats Dina Titus and Steven Horsford.
Congressman Ro Khanna of California has been the most active, attending more than a dozen events across the state. He visited Elko, Ely, and the Walker River Indian Reservation. These areas have small registered Democratic bases, but early votes in a primary can determine which candidates gain momentum.
Republican figures have been less visible. President Trump’s grip on the party leads many potential candidates to wait and see. Although he cannot serve a third term, his comments on the issue have created uncertainty. Additionally, confusion remains regarding the Nevada Republican Party’s nomination process, which prioritized a party-run caucus over the state primary in 2024.
Despite this hesitation, some Republican figures have made appearances. Vice President JD Vance, who polls suggest is the most likely GOP successor, visited Las Vegas over the summer. He spoke at the Republican Jewish Coalition’s 2026 Leadership Summit. He also attended the Bitcoin 2025 Conference, where Donald Trump Jr. was also present.
Historically, early states like Iowa and New Hampshire secured policy promises from candidates. Nevada Democrats, led by late Senator Harry Reid, pushed for an early primary to gain similar influence. However, modern campaigns are now nationalized through social media and television.
The impact of early states has diminished in recent cycles. In 2020, Bernie Sanders and Pete Buttigieg led early polls, but Joe Biden won the nomination. In 2024, Nevada Democrats voted for Biden, but Kamala Harris appeared on the general election ballot.
Local political consultants, television stations, and ad agencies expect to earn revenue over the coming year as campaigns target the state. The early schedule ensures a steady flow of events and media attention in Nevada through 2028.
