In a significant twist ahead of the election, New Hampshire’s Libertarian Party has officially endorsed former President Donald Trump for the presidency, aiming to influence the state’s tight race. With New Hampshire’s four electoral votes potentially swinging the national outcome, this endorsement could prove crucial as current polls show Vice President Kamala Harris with only a 3.5-point lead in the RealClearPolitics polling average.
The New Hampshire Libertarian Party’s endorsement underscored the weight of their decision: “This was not a light decision. But we feel it is the right one for ourselves, for our children, and for the best future of a Free State of New Hampshire.” While acknowledging that Trump is “not a libertarian,” the statement argued he is still “the best candidate for libertarians,” citing concerns over a Democrat-led future with “more socialism, more censorship, more taxes, more authoritarianism.”
As of September 30, New Hampshire had over 318,000 registered undeclared voters—a crucial swing factor in a state where Republicans and Democrats are registered in close numbers, with 308,223 Republicans to 268,943 Democrats, according to the New Hampshire Secretary of State. The Libertarian Party’s endorsement seeks to sway undecided voters in a state that has historically acted as a bellwether, notably in 2016 when Trump narrowly lost New Hampshire by less than half a percentage point.
The party’s statement was clear in its opposition to the Democratic ticket, encouraging supporters not to vote for the Libertarian presidential candidate on the ballot. “The barbarians are at the gates,” the statement read. “We must make sure that New Hampshire continues to repel progressives, socialists, communists, and leftists of all stripes.” They emphasized the importance of New Hampshire as “the only red state in a blue New England,” hinting at Trump’s role in securing conservative footholds in the region.
The endorsement reflects broader concerns among libertarians in New Hampshire over freedom of speech, taxation, and personal liberties. The New Hampshire Libertarian Party, known for its vocal stance on individual freedom, is considered one of the most influential Libertarian affiliates nationwide. Ending the statement with a rallying call, the party urged its members: “Now get out there and vote!”
With New Hampshire’s large number of undeclared voters, this endorsement could have a decisive impact as voters head to the polls in one of the closest elections in recent memory.
LPNH Endorses Donald Trump for President
Donald Trump is officially endorsed by the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire for President.
This was not a light decision. But we feel it is the right one for ourselves, for our children, and for the best future of a Free State of New… pic.twitter.com/Sg6t4XhxCr
— Libertarian Party NH ? (@LPNH) November 5, 2024