Early Primary Bids by 2 States Rejected

The Democratic Party rejected challenges to first-in-the-nation primary bragging rights for Iowa and New Hampshire. The rules panel of the Democratic National Committee, meeting in Seattle, turned aside efforts by Michigan and Washington state to challenge the supremacy of the two states. Party rules say no delegation selection can begin until March 7, with an exception for Iowa, traditionally the first caucus state, and New Hampshire, the first primary state. Michigan wants to hold caucuses Feb. 12. Washington state wants to hold its primary Feb. 29.