Despite a decisive move to stay off the campaign trail in New Hampshire, President Joe Biden emerged triumphant in the state's Democratic primary yesterday, snagging a win through a wave of write-in votes. Refusing to appear on the ballot, Biden's victory sent a robust signal of his stronghold on the Democratic Party as he gears up for a potential showdown with former President Donald Trump.
Biden's surprise New Hampshire success, as reported by AP News, highlights his influence even when pitted against two high-profile opponents, Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips, and author Marianne Williamson — both of whom had their names on the ballot. Despite the victory, the Granite State's rebellious move to proceed with their primary in defiance of the Democratic National Committee's revamped primary schedule meant its results will not contribute to the delegate count.
Biden's campaign was tepid in the Granite State, spurred on by grassroots efforts rather than his direct involvement. According to New Hampshire Public Radio, Gail Ellis, a voter from Windham said, "I like [Biden]; I've always liked him. I think he's a good person, I think he's a good president, and we need him to beat Trump."
In a statement obtained by AP News, Biden acknowledged the New Hampshire Democrats' "historic demonstration of commitment to our democratic process" and extended an open hand to independents and anti-Trump Republicans. And, despite the lack of traditional campaign fanfare, the organized write-in movement aided not only Biden's symbolic win but also served as groundwork for the general election efforts in the state, according to New Hampshire Public Radio.
Phillips and Williamson, who both made last-ditch efforts to campaign vigorously in New Hampshire, were pointedly critical of Biden's leadership. "If he wrote you off, why would you write him in?" Phillips posed to his supporters in Nashua. However, their efforts were not enough to rival the write-in campaign that ultimately propelled Biden to victory in a primary unprecedented in its format.
