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After the Iowa caucus results this past week, New Hampshire is the first state on the United States' Democratic and Republican primary schedule and will play a key part in the 2016 election. Here's a look at why Tuesday will be such a big deal when voters go to the polls in New Hampshire:
NASHUA, N.H. — The New Hampshire primary is the first actual primary in the presidential election process and is considered a key race because it allows candidates such as Donald Trump, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders to find out how they appeal to a broader audience.
This election allows undeclared voters to vote either in the Republican primary or Democratic primary.
While the Feb. 9 contest is the first primary in the nation, it is the second contest, behind the Iowa caucus.
Here is a quick primer on the election.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Simply put, it provides early momentum to those who do well. The positive momentum comes in the form of media attention and support from donors, both of which are crucial as the primaries that follow New Hampshire come in rapid fire.
Need proof of what New Hampshire can do for a candidate? Look to Sen. John McCain in 2008. His victory here helped solidify his position as the nominee despite his campaign being in tatters months ahead of the primary.
But, of course, a New Hampshire primary win doesn't promise a ticket to the General Election. Look to former U.S> Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's 2008 primary here and subsequent loss to President Obama in the primaries for evidence of that.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
It's not a closed primary, nor is it an open primary.
Here's what that means: In a closed primary only people registered with that party can vote in that state's primary. In an open primary, people registered with one political party can vote in the primaries of other political parties.
In New Hampshire, Republicans and Democrats vote in their respective primaries. However, undeclared independent voters can choose to vote in either the Democratic or Republican primaries.
