Republican candidates prepare for the primary showdown in New Hampshire. Democrats infighting after Biden's idea to bump the state from its primary calendar slot. Can Trump choose his child as a running mate? Understanding Trump supporters. The impact of Dean Phillips running against Joe Biden.
The New Hampshire primary is seen as an unpleasant hurdle for the White House, with Joe Biden's name not on the ballot and the potential for unexpected support for other candidates generating criticism and displeasure.
Unlike Iowa, New Hampshire has a regular vote and not a caucus, and registered Republicans and independents can vote in the Republican primary, while Democrats face the challenge of needing to change their party affiliation ahead of time.
Deep dives
The Democratic primary in New Hampshire
The Democratic primary in New Hampshire is less competitive and has been changed in terms of order for states to vote. It is seen as an unpleasant hurdle for the White House. Joe Biden's name is not on the ballot, and although it is a pointless exercise, it generates headlines that could be unpleasant for the White House. Congressman Dean Phillips is running against Biden, although it won't have a significant impact on the upcoming election.
The differences between New Hampshire and Iowa
New Hampshire and Iowa have differences in their political process and demographics. Unlike Iowa, New Hampshire has a regular vote and not a caucus. Additionally, registered Republicans and independents can vote in the Republican primary, while Democrats need to have changed their party affiliation ahead of time. New Hampshire is known for its libertarian views and can be prickly about following Iowa's lead in the primary.
The potential candidates for running mate
Potential running mates for Donald Trump include Elise Stefanik, a congresswoman from New York who voted against certifying the election for Joe Biden, and Kerry Lake, a former Fox News anchor who ran as governor for Arizona. Kristi Noem from South Dakota is a possibility as well, but her stance on abortion might count against her. Nikki Haley is a strong candidate, but her focus is on future elections rather than being a running mate. Donald Trump is expected to choose a woman as his running mate.
The impact of infighting on the Democratic primary
Although the Democratic primary in New Hampshire is less competitive, it is unsanctioned by the Democratic Party, and there is a lack of agreement on who gets to decide the candidate. The change in the order of primaries puts South Carolina first. Joe Biden's name is not on the New Hampshire ballot, but there will still be a vote. It may generate displeasure and criticism for the White House if candidates like Dean Phillips receive unexpected support, but it is a minor concern among the broader challenges Biden faces.
Hot on the heels of the Iowa caucus, Republican candidates Donald Trump, Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis prepare for the next primary showdown in New Hampshire.
Sarah and Justin unpack if it could prove to be a tougher test for Trump and a way back into the race for the other candidates.
And, why are the Democrats infighting after Biden’s idea to bump the state from its prized primary calendar slot?
HOSTS:
Sarah Smith, North America editor
Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter
GET IN TOUCH:
Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB
Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480
Email Americast@bbc.co.uk
Or use #Americast. Find out more about our award-winning “undercover voters” here: bbc.in/3lFddSF.
This episode was made by George Dabby with Catherine Fusillo, Madeleine Drury, Maia Davies and Claire Betzer. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is George Dabby. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode