NH primary date major political football

When is the New Hampshire Primary going to be? That is the million dollar question, and the question many students on campus are asking.

Students, especially those from greater distances, are all looking to make their travel plans for the upcoming holiday season, but do not want to miss out on this great opportunity.

Carolyn Hammer, Communications Specialist at NHIOP, says, "Multiple students have asked me about the date, especially those looking to make plans for the break, and I only know the dates that have been discussed publicly."

Drew Cyr, '12, Politics major, is one such student saying, "I have family plans for the Christmas break, but I am also a Politics major and want to be here for the debate," says Drew Cyr, '12.

Both of the December 6th date and the January 10th date are not ideal for attracting student involvement. This could mean a lot more work for campaigns and news outlets that rely on help from college students during the busy primary week.

Professor Peter Josephson, of the Politics department, explains, "On the one hand, the December 6th date gives students less time to get involved in the primary events. Student would need to get involved now. The other date [Jan. 10th] however, is when students are home for break."

Many students echo Professor Josephson's statement. Brock Weber '12, Politics major, says, "If it's January 6th I don't have time. My thesis is due close to then and after than we head straight into finals. It's a really busy time."

Ricky Serino '14, says, "As a sophomore Politics major, I'd be sad if it was in December. I would not be able to participate to the fullest if it were during finals."

Administrators at the NHIOP believe that students will find ways to be as involved as they can regardless of the date.

"Either date poses a challenge. Knowing our students I know that they are willing to meet them," Hammer.

Neil Levesque, Executive Director of the NHIOP, agrees saying, "I'm sure students will enjoy the debate and primary in whatever way they can."

To many students that means driving back up to school during break if necessary.

"I would definitely come back to school for the debate," Serino says.

Evan Dell'Olio '13, Politics major, agrees saying, "If it's late December or early January that wouldn't be a problem."

While students anxiously await the announcement of the date, Levesque can offer them this assurance.

"Whenever the primary date is, I know it will be first."