The Road to Washington

The state of New Hampshire has always played an important role in political campaigns. Every four years, New Hampshire voters are the first citizens to go to the polls and cast votes in primary election, a tradition since 1920 and a NH state law since 1977. Today, New Hampshire remains politically active and many candidates hold town meeting-style events and speak at colleges and venues throughout New Hampshire, including Colby-Sawyer College.

George H.W. Bush at Colby-Sawyer during his 1980 campaign.

Campaigns often use similar methods to reach constituents and get voters involved. Candidates for Congress and President will often use television ads to reach a larger group of voters. Minor office campaigns often take a front porch approach, using techniques such as talking to local media and distributing campaign materials.

Congressman James C. Cleveland speaking with constituents in Lancaster, NH.

Emerging technologies have always influenced political campaigns, allowing us to interact with political candidates in new ways. In the 1960s, the first television debates were broadcast and voters were able to visually compare President Nixon and Senator Kennedy. Today, tools like email, websites, blogs, and podcasts provide new forums for candidates and their supporters (and dissenters) to voice their opinions.

James and Hilary Cleveland campaigning.

Voter involvement is also essential to a successful campaign. Volunteers distribute handouts and rally for the candidate in their neighborhoods. Anyone can show their support for a chosen candidate by displaying placards and materials like bumper stickers and campaign buttons. Creative promotional materials from political campaigns sometimes become collector’s items.