New Hampshire Established as First Primary State

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On March 9, 1920, New Hampshire held the first presidential primary election, establishing the state's tradition of being the first to vote in the nominating process. This tradition has continued for over a century, with candidates criss-crossing the state every four years in hopes of winning that crucial first primary.

Why it matters

New Hampshire's status as the first primary state gives it an outsized influence on the presidential election process, as candidates must perform well there to gain momentum heading into the rest of the nominating contests. This has made the state a must-visit for presidential hopefuls and has shaped the course of many elections.

The details

New Hampshire's primary election law was passed in 1913, but the state didn't hold its first primary until 1920. Since then, it has maintained its status as the first state to vote in the presidential nominating process, a tradition that has endured for over a century.

• On March 9, 1920, New Hampshire held its first presidential primary election.
• Every 4 years, candidates criss-cross the Granite State ahead of the first-in-the-nation primary.