First in the Nation

Every four years it gets exciting in New Hampshire. New Hampshire holds the “first-in-the-nation” presidential primary, which means that it is the first state to hold the primary elections for selecting a presidential candidate from the democratic and republican parties. Being the “first” gives New Hampshire an extraordinary significance – winning or losing here can make an impact on the candidate’s chances. History is replete with instances of a win or even a second place propelling a candidate towards victory. New Hampshire’s small number of delegates does not really have numerical significance in the final conventions which choose the candidates; it is its status as “first-in-the-nation” that gives it so much importance in the primaries. And it is a status which New Hampshire guards zealously.

Campaigning starts early in the state; candidates make themselves known, visit homes, diners, and schools, they participate in local parades, town hall meetings, and host socials with free pizza, ice-cream, hot dogs. It is a very grassroots style of campaigning, where the candidate does not have the protection of a large staff and is not speaking to a television or screen. He or she is shaking people’s hands and literally working for each vote. And it is a mode of operation where the sheer strength of funds for expensive ad campaigns and spin campaigns will be no use. A less well-known candidate has a good chance if he or she can convince voters. It is democracy at its best.

New Hampshire residents are very aware of the critical role they play in selecting a presidential candidate. And they take their role very seriously. They “shop” for candidates, listen carefully to what they say, ask informed questions, and pride themselves on making utmost use of the fact that the candidates are right here in front of them, talking to them. And I agree with them when they feel that they are experienced in the process and can vet a candidate much better than one can through TV advertisements and sound bites and news articles. And best of all we enjoy doing it, and being in New Hampshire season can be tremendously exciting.

So I thought I would write down my experiences of meeting with candidates and attending town hall meetings during the primary season.