Democrats narrow 2028 convention race to three cities as battle to succeed Trump looms

Boston, Denver and Philadelphia have made the final shortlist to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention, as the party prepares for an open primary to choose a successor to President Donald Trump.

Democratic National Committee Chairman Ken Martin said in a statement that the cities submitted “incredibly strong bids,” promising the gathering will be an “inspiring celebration of our party’s future nominee.”

Party leaders are expected to make a final selection later this year. Republicans have already chosen Houston for their 2028 convention.

Scheduled for Aug. 7-10, 2028, the convention traditionally allows the party to introduce its nominee, rally grassroots supporters, and launch the core general election campaign.

The party gave no reason for eliminating Atlanta and Chicago, the site of the 2024 event. Officials visited all five candidate cities in April and May to assess fundraising capacity and logistics.

The three finalists are liberal hubs bordered by suburbs that have grown vital to the party’s electoral strategy. They also offer access to labor unions, key demographics, and significant fundraising resources.

While Colorado and Massachusetts consistently back Democrats in presidential races, Pennsylvania remains a major battleground. Trump won Pennsylvania in 2024.

Philadelphia last hosted the gathering in 2016, Denver in 2008 and Boston in 2004.

Before turning fully to the presidential race, Democrats are aiming at this year’s midterms to reclaim control of the narrow Republican-led House and potentially the Senate.

Democrats face a fundraising deficit against Republicans, along with existing debts, leaving Martin facing criticism over his management of party finances.

At a recent party meeting in Texas, Martin brushed off critics and called for unity ahead of the midterms and the conclusion of Trump’s second term in 2028.