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birch paper
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New Hampshire presents a structural problem for statewide candidates. There are no steppingstones, there is no ladder of advancement. Massachusetts and Vermont have Lieutenant Governors, Attorneys General, and Secretaries of State elected statewide. This gives political figures a chance to gain statewide exposure by running for, and maybe winning, a position that doesn't demand as big a campaign budget, and arguably is easier to attain, than Governor or Senator. The lower-level campaign provides statewide exposure.
New Hampshire has no such offices. As a result, our statewide candidates are frequently wealthy people with minimal electoral experience.
I live in the Second Congressional District. I know very little about Steve Marchand (just as someone in Portsmouth would probably know little about Katrina Swett, or the Mayor of Keene or Lebanon). Once the campaign heats up -- which won't happen until after the Presidential primary -- I'll hear about statewide candidates through the local media. But campaigns would probably like to engage with politically-minded voters earlier.
That's where statewide political blogs can help. (Blue Hampshire is the pre-eminent Democratic political blog in the state, IMHO.) Candidates can invest a few hours here and reach people who are more plugged into their local political scenes, and more influential -- simply because they talk more about politics -- than the average bear.
It's already happening. Ray Buckley has built a level of trust with his postings here. Jim Splaine -- precisely the sort of local political star who has had no easy way to expand to a larger stage in New Hampshire -- is increasing his name recognition and credentials with progressives statewide. Jay Buckey has recognized the potential and posted here.
Maybe it's size, maybe it's newness, but this community tends to be a bit more civil, a bit more thoughtful, a bit less driven by outrage than some of the bigger, national political blogs. And -- even with the big blogs -- the best way for a candidate to get a respectful hearing is to start speaking. It's simply human nature that we don't snipe at people as much right in front of them.
When you visit us you will be asked about your positions, you will be challenged -- and you will be thanked. We have valued contributors with a range of Democratic views. You will find that you have become a better candidate, with a better understanding of grassroots sentiment, for your participation.
