The Democratic National Committee recently voted to reinstate New Hampshire’s delegates for the upcoming convention in Chicago, following a dispute over the state’s primary schedule. New Hampshire, which has a law mandating it to hold the first presidential primary, did not comply with the new Democratic calendar that moved South Carolina to the front. President Joe Biden did not file for New Hampshire’s unsanctioned primary, but still won with 64% through a write-in campaign. Biden mentioned during a visit to New Hampshire that he expected the state’s delegates to count, prior to the recent decision by the DNC.
Prior to the delegate selection meeting, the New Hampshire Democratic Party organized a party-run primary where Biden was the only candidate on the ballot. Around two dozen people participated in this vote, which the DNC saw as a sanctioned primary supporting New Hampshire’s delegates’ inclusion in the convention. New Hampshire Democratic Chairman Ray Buckley expressed his satisfaction with the diverse and potentially historic group of delegates chosen from the state, with many being under 36 and some identifying as LGBTQ. Despite the chaos surrounding the primary order this cycle, Buckley stated that the party was ready to move forward and focus on the upcoming general election.
Buckley mentioned the primary schedule chaos but also highlighted the party’s readiness to focus on reelecting Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, a Democratic governor in New Hampshire, both congressional seats, and securing majorities in the statehouse. He emphasized that the party is looking ahead to the future and believes in the importance of saving democracy first before concerning themselves with New Hampshire retaining its first-in-the-nation primary status in 2028. The focus remains on supporting the Democratic candidates and working towards a successful outcome in the upcoming election.
Going forward, New Hampshire is pleased to show their support for Biden and Harris in Chicago, with a sense of pride in the chosen delegates representing the state. Buckley pointed out the diversity and youthfulness of the delegates, indicating a commitment to inclusivity and representation within the party. The decision to reinstate New Hampshire’s delegates signals a resolution to the previous conflict and an opportunity for the state to have its voice heard in the upcoming convention. The party is focused on unity and moving towards the general election, where they hope to secure victories for their candidates across various levels of government.
The decision to reinstate New Hampshire’s delegates comes after a period of contention over the state’s primary and its compliance with the Democratic calendar. President Biden’s write-in victory in the unsanctioned primary reflected the state’s commitment to participating in the process despite the disagreements. With the DNC’s recent vote and the party’s willingness to look ahead, New Hampshire is now positioned to contribute to the upcoming convention and support the Democratic ticket. The party’s focus is on ensuring a successful election outcome and reelecting key officials, with a sense of optimism and determination for the road ahead.
