This is a clip from my one-hour Turner Broadcasting television documentary special on the state of New Hampshire. A wonderfully rugged individualistic citizenry where just about everyone is a character worth filming.
The vibe around election times in New Hampshire is uniquely vibrant and intense, largely because New Hampshire holds the first presidential primary in the United States. This tradition, known as the "New Hampshire Primary," gives the state a significant role in the national electoral process, drawing considerable attention from media, political analysts, candidates, and their campaign teams. The early primary date means New Hampshire voters have a profound impact on shaping the race for presidential nominations, making the state a focal point for political activity during election seasons.
In the weeks and months leading up to the primary, New Hampshire transforms into a political hub. Candidates and their campaign teams crisscross the state, holding town hall meetings, rallies, and intimate house parties in an effort to connect with voters. The state's residents are known for taking their political responsibilities seriously, often engaging candidates with thoughtful questions and expecting substantive discussions on policy issues. The close interaction between voters and candidates is a hallmark of the New Hampshire primary, reflecting the state's tradition of grassroots politics.
Local businesses, schools, and community centers become venues for political discourse, with candidates seeking to make personal connections and leave lasting impressions. The media presence also ramps up, with national and international outlets covering the events, interviews, and public forums that fill the state's political calendar.
On Election Day, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Polling places across the state open early, with voters arriving to cast their ballots. New Hampshire's commitment to civic participation is evident in the high voter turnout rates, as residents fulfill their role in the democratic process.
Votes in New Hampshire are counted both manually and electronically, depending on the precinct. The state uses a mix of paper ballots, which are either counted by hand or fed into optical scan machines, and direct-recording electronic (DRE) voting systems without a paper trail in some locations. After the polls close, the counting process begins, with results from individual precincts reported to the Secretary of State's office.
The hand-counting of ballots in some precincts is a tradition that underscores New Hampshire's commitment to ensuring the integrity and transparency of the electoral process. The manual count, conducted by local election officials and volunteers, often takes place in a public setting, allowing observers to witness the process.
Once the votes are counted and the results announced, New Hampshire's impact on the presidential race becomes clear. The outcomes of the primary can significantly influence the momentum of candidates, shaping media narratives and voter perceptions nationwide. Candidates who perform well often gain increased media attention and campaign donations, while those who fare poorly may face pressure to reconsider their campaigns.
The New Hampshire Primary is not just an electoral event; it's an expression of democratic engagement and an essential part of the American political landscape, setting the tone for the primaries and caucuses that follow.
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