For years New Hampshire’s special (first) primary status has been defended by the theory of “retail politics.” That is, if we grant the “serious” New Hampshire voters the privilege of becoming more intimately acquainted with the candidates–in diners, homes, and the like–they’ll make a more informed decision and get the primary season off on the right foot. Consequently, presidential candidates spend a hugely disproportionate amount of their time and resources campaigning in New Hampshire (and Iowa).
So how effective was all that time spent in New Hampshire this time around? Here’s this, from the New Hampshire primary exit poll:
When Did You Decide Your Vote?
Today (17%)
Last Three Days (21%)
Last Week (10%)
So, despite months of being wooed by door-to-door canvassing and town hall meetings, nearly half (48%) of the voters didn’t decide who to vote for until the last week.
It makes you wonder what all the fuss was about.