In the upcoming presidential campaign, the issues of border security and protecting democracy are at the forefront of voters' minds in New Hampshire, according to recent polls. While some candidates, such as Nikki Haley, are seeking to close the gap with independents and undeclared voters, it remains to be seen whether they can sway this crucial voting bloc.
Haley faces a notable challenge in appealing to independent swing voters, who make up a significant portion of the electorate. Despite her popularity among conservative base voters, she needs to achieve a seismic turnout among independents and secure a two-and-a-half-to-one advantage over her main rival, Donald Trump, to have a chance at a surprise victory.
On the Democratic side, there are lingering concerns about the primary being held in South Carolina instead of New Hampshire. As a result, there is a write-in campaign being organized in the state. However, mounting a successful write-in campaign for an incumbent president who has previously struggled to garner support in the Democratic primary in New Hampshire presents a considerable challenge.
Meanwhile, a fake automated call utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technology, targeting Democratic voters and urging them to stay home on Election Day, has raised eyebrows. The call provided the personal cell phone number of Kathy Sullivan, the former Democratic Party Chairman in New Hampshire who is leading the write-in campaign for the president. Sullivan has filed a complaint with the Attorney General's office and seeks federal law enforcement involvement.
As the election draws closer, all eyes are on the independent voters as a crucial demographic to watch. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the accuracy of polling data, as it may have undersampled independent voters. It remains uncertain whether Haley has been able to effectively engage and win over those voters who are dissatisfied with both Trump and Biden and are in search of a different candidate.
In this pivotal moment in New Hampshire's primary, the question arises as to whether Haley has successfully reached out to those voters who have been disillusioned and are seeking a change in leadership. The outcome of this primary will likely greatly influence the trajectory of the general election, making it a critical opportunity for last-ditch efforts to alter the course before the final showdown between the two major parties.