During a recent meeting of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, discussions centered on the pressing need to move the state’s primary election date, with a strong push for a June timeframe. Representative Chris Schultz, a Concord state representative, emphasized the importance of this change, arguing that the current primary schedule serves as an "incumbent protection plan," limiting the time candidates have to connect with voters before the general election.

Schultz, drawing from his extensive experience in various states, highlighted that the average time between the primary and general elections is insufficient for candidates to recover from contentious primaries. He noted that a mere 58 days is not enough for candidates to pivot their messaging and engage with a broader electorate, particularly when many voters do not participate in primaries. Schultz proposed that moving the primary to June would allow for a more effective campaign period, giving candidates the opportunity to communicate their messages to general election voters before summer vacations begin.

The committee also heard from Chairman Berry, who echoed Schultz's sentiments, stating that the current primary system disadvantages challengers and favors incumbents. He pointed out that the existing timeline creates a significant hurdle for candidates, particularly those facing contested primaries, as they struggle to gain traction and funding in a compressed timeframe.

Both representatives stressed the need for a collaborative approach to determine the best date for the primary, suggesting a ranked-choice voting method to explore various options. They argued that an earlier primary would not only enhance the democratic process but also ensure that voters receive adequate information about all candidates, thereby fostering a more informed electorate.

As the committee continues to deliberate on this issue, the proposed shift to a June primary date remains a focal point, with advocates believing it could lead to a more equitable and engaging electoral process for New Hampshire voters.