In an effort to safeguard President Joe Biden’s reputation in what has traditionally been the first primary state, New Hampshire Democrats have initiated a write-in campaign after the President decided not to put his name on the primary ballot. The move came following Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota’s announcement that he would challenge Biden for the nomination. Led by veteran Democratic operatives and politicians such as Jim Demers and Kathy Sullivan, the campaign, named “Granite State Write-In,” is backed by influential New Hampshire Democrats, including state senators, gubernatorial candidates, and former representatives.
Preserving Biden’s Reputation
The campaign emphasizes the significance of the 2024 election for the nation’s democracy, stating that supporting Joe Biden in New Hampshire’s 2024 First in the Nation primary is crucial. The Biden campaign and the state Democratic Party have not officially endorsed the write-in effort. Still, it has garnered support from prominent New Hampshire Democrats, including members of the federal delegation.
Background: New Hampshire Primary Dispute
The write-in campaign is a response to President Biden’s decision to strip New Hampshire of its cherished first primary status. The dispute arose when Biden and the Democratic National Committee elevated South Carolina to the top spot on the 2024 calendar. New Hampshire law mandates the state to hold its primary before any similar contest, leading to a standoff between national and state Democrats.
Biden’s refusal to put his name on the primary ballot in New Hampshire prompted other Democrats to explore opportunities, including Rep. Dean Phillips, who initiated a primary challenge to Biden. He pledged to restore the state’s lead-off status.
Handling Write-In Votes
New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan recommends local election officials to bring in additional help for processing a potentially large number of write-in votes. Despite the extra work, Scanlan acknowledges that towns will secure the necessary resources. He also expressed disappointment in Biden’s decision not to participate in New Hampshire’s primary, believing that underdog candidates who did file for the ballot will campaign in the state to gain media attention.
Conclusion
The launch of the write-in campaign for Joe Biden in New Hampshire reflects the state’s determination to maintain its crucial role in the presidential primary process. While this effort may be perceived as a response to Biden’s choice to bypass New Hampshire’s primary, it showcases the competitive spirit within the Democratic Party as candidates vie for the nomination.
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