Category Archives: Spring 2008

Voters in the 124th state Assembly District so far have only one option: their incumbent William A. Barclay (R-Pulaski). Barclay, 38, was nominated May 1 by the Onondaga County Republican Party to run again for the assembly seat he has … Continue reading →

[Update: On May 1st, the Onondaga County Republican Party nominated Dale Sweetland as its choice for the 25th Congressional District. Sweetland received 94 percent of the vote, with Assemblyman Bob Oaks coming in second with 5 percent. On May 6, … Continue reading →

[INTRO: College tuition is getting attention from Congress. The Senate Finance Committee has asked 136 colleges and universities to explain their endowment spending and financial aid. Syracuse University was on that list and Democracywise reporter Beth Croughan tells us just … Continue reading →

Where the three candidates stand on New York’s top-three issues: John McHugh (Republican, incumbent) The Economy: McHugh supports making the Bush tax cuts permanent and is opposed to any tax increases for government programs. On extending the soon-to-expire Bush tax … Continue reading →

Saying they are fed up with the federal government, a political rookie and a familiar opponent will challenge a veteran congressman for New York’s 23rd Congressional District this fall. The rookie is Michael Oot, a lawyer from Stockbridge who is … Continue reading →

A freshman Democratic incumbent from Utica. Two Republicans: An Oneida County businessman and a self-employed handyman from Garrattsville. Those are shaping up as choices for voters in the 24th Congressional District for the November 2008 election. The freshman Democrat is … Continue reading →

Voters in the 121st state Assembly District will choose between incumbent Democrat Al Stirpe and Republican LaFayette town councillor David Knapp in the election this year. The election is on Nov. 4, 2008. Stirpe is running for his second term … Continue reading →

Here’s a look at the views of  Assemblyman David Townsend, R-Oneida, on issues affecting the 115th district: The Economy:  “The state of Florida has 18 million citizens and $60 billion in their budget.  New York has 19 million citizens and … Continue reading →

A saxophone-playing senator is still bringing music to Syracuse after 16 years in office. Republican John DeFrancisco is running for his ninth term as state senator in the 50th District this November. As of late April, DeFrancisco is unopposed for … Continue reading →

(Editor’s Note: On May 1, 2008, anti-abortion activist Christina Fitch of Liverpool won the designation of the Onondaga County Republican Party.) The choice for voters in the 119th state Assembly District is — once again — shaped by 18-year incumbent … Continue reading →

(Editor’s note: On May 1, 2008, veteran Republican Kristen Rounds, long-time chair of the 3rd Ward, won the designation of the Onondaga County Republican Party over Peter Gay, who had been the only openly declared candidate when this story was … Continue reading →

A veteran Republican Assemblyman is likely to be the only choice for voters in the 115th District. David R. Townsend, R-Oneida, has no challenger as of late April for state Assemblyman of the 115th District. He has held the seat … Continue reading →

Treating her patients who are poor takes more than just medicine, says pediatrician Maritza Alvarado. “We need to understand our clients better,” said Alvarado. Alvarado is one of the 3,000 local graduates of a national educational program called Bridges out … Continue reading →

Mornings that start at 5 a.m. in the Midwest and nights that end past midnight in the South. Constant travel. A day off here or there — if the next stop is across the country and if there’s an overnight … Continue reading →

The high school drop-out rate is on the rise for the Syracuse City School District. “It’s a very serious problem,” said Steve Gramet, director of pupil services at the school district office. “Too many students don’t graduate,” he added. About … Continue reading →

Employees of Syracuse University are making their contributions to democracy this presidential election cycle—to the tune of at least $19,000. And 32 of at least 35 contributions made by employees of Syracuse since Jan. 1, 2007, have gone to Democratic … Continue reading →

For $200, Robert Diflorio made a contribution to democracy. A frequent donor, Diflorio donated the money to the first-time legislator Al Stirpe of the 121st Assembly District. “I wanted to help him,” said Diflorio, who is a registered Democrat and … Continue reading →

With their dollars, college professors, administrators and staff around Central New York are funding presidential candidates to the tune of at least $62,694 in the last two years. That’s according to a search of campaign finance reports filed with the … Continue reading →

A treasure chest has opened in Onondaga County for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton since she won New York’s primary election in February. After the Feb. 5 primary, donors in the county gave $27, 618 during the rest of the month, … Continue reading →

For his political treasure chest, U.S. Rep. Michael Arcuri (D-Utica) can count on labor unions, New York City and his hometown of Utica. That’s typical for Democratic politicians, said Jeff Stonecash, a professor of political science at Syracuse University. Politicians, … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/maffeifinances.mp3] democrat=”” dan=”” maffei=”” is=”” running=”” again=”” for=”” congress=”” from=”” the=”” 25=””>25th District around Syracuse. Democracywise reporter Beth Croughan tells us just how much money Maffei has — and where some of his contributions are coming from. > At age … Continue reading →

[Half-a-million dollars in the bank but no election to spend it on. Congressman Jim Walsh will have to find another way to cash in his campaign donations when he steps down next year. Shelly Schwartz of Democracywise tells us how … Continue reading →

A federal loan. Work-study. An engineering grant. A university grant. With all of that financial aid — about $20,000 worth a year —Andrew DiOrio is able to complete his sophomore year at Syracuse University. “Without financial aid I wouldn’t be … Continue reading →

Aluminum baseball bats continue to raise concerns for some in youth baseball leagues. But the Little League — the largest of youth leagues — says the metal bats are as safe as wooden bats. Some parents, coaches and league administrators … Continue reading →

[Intro: Higher college costs and a weak economy — that’s a double whammy for Syracuse University. Democracywise reporter Beth Croughan tells us how S-U is trying to make sure people can still afford the hefty 32,000-dollar price tag for next … Continue reading →

Green fever is rising in Syracuse. Take, for example, CDH Energy Corp. It’s a Cazenovia-based company that evaluates energy systems. It’s spearheading a project to design energy-efficient homes on Syracuse’s Near West Side. And the company is doing that with … Continue reading →

For the sixth consecutive year, the Syracuse City School District remains on the state’s list of low-performing districts. All four Syracuse high schools are designated as “schools requiring academic progress,” according to the list released on March 25 by the … Continue reading →

[Like a disease, hundreds of abandoned buildings slowly rot away and infect Syracuse neighborhoods with a lot of problems. People have been abandoning their homes and businesses for decades. Shelly Schwartz of Democracywise explains how vacant buildings harm neighborhoods and … Continue reading →

[Bringing neighborhoods back to life. That’s the mission of community groups renovating abandoned buildings. Many are doing this without the help of government money. Shelly Schwartz of Democracywise explains how community members are restoring the streets they call home without … Continue reading →

[Buy a house for a buck. That’s what Syracuse Mayor Matt Driscoll is proposing to entice people to fix up abandoned buildings. Shelly Schwartz of Democracywise tells us what the mayor and others say about how this deal aims to … Continue reading →

With nearly $500,000 owed to taxpayers, Onondaga County is not yet collecting any of the debt from the Syracuse Chiefs. But the minor-league baseball team will have to pay up in the future, says at least one county official. “It’s … Continue reading →

For prisoners suffering from mental illness, solitary confinement is no longer legal in New York. New York state passed the “SHU bill” on Jan. 15. That’s legislation requiring the Department of Correctional Services to conduct mental health assessments on all … Continue reading →

When the second plane crashed into the World Trade Center building and took the life of Mary Fetchet’s 24-year-old son, her life priorities changed “It changed my life dramatically,” said Mary Fetchet in a phone interview. “I felt as though … Continue reading →

Water rates are likely to go up in Syracuse within the next couple of years, say city officials. This is because of new regulations by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The E.P.A. is requiring the city to treat its drinking … Continue reading →

Job cuts will combat the budget problem of the Syracuse City School District, says the district’s superintendent. These cuts of 75 jobs will be done through attrition and not layoffs, Superintendent Daniel G. Lowengard said. “To make the revenues and … Continue reading →

[INTRO: With millions of taxpayer dollars, Syracuse University is working with the city to develop what’s called the “Connective Corridor.” The city and university see this project as an economic necessity. But Democracywise reporter Beth Croughan tells us why some … Continue reading →

Onondaga Lake is no longer Syracuse’s sewer. That’s the result of Onondaga County having completed more than two-thirds of its court-ordered projects to stop municipal sewage from polluting the lake, say government and other experts. “Onondaga Lake is beginning to … Continue reading →

Money, influence and power. These were the targets of an eight-month old law in which Congress aimed to curb the $1.47 billion lobbying industry. So far, at least one lobbyist, Benjamin Lieber of the Carmen Group in Washington, D.C., does … Continue reading →

Friday-night football lost on the ballot Wednesday as Liverpool Central School District residents headed to the polls. That’s the effect on the Liverpool High School’s Warriors as voters rejected a $44.5 million proposal that included funding for a new $6.3 … Continue reading →

New York was good to Sen. Hillary Clinton in Tuesday’s Democratic primary. In her home state, Clinton won big, bringing in 57 percent of the statewide unofficial vote, compared to 40 percent for Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois. Onondaga County … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Shelly-NY-primary-McCain.mp3] [Senator John McCain of Arizona has broken away from the pack in the Republican presidential race. After Super Tuesday, McCain has gone from “the comeback kid” to the likely Republican nominee. Shelly Schwartz of Democracywise tells us about McCain’s … Continue reading →

Mitt Romney won the Republican nomination in his home state of Massachusetts. But that momentum didn’t translate to New York voters. Romney lost the New York State primary Tuesday. He received about 30 percent of the votes. Sen. John McCain … Continue reading →

In the race for all-important numbers of delegates, Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona and Democratic Sen. Hillary Clinton were the big winners in New York’s presidential primaries Tuesday. In the winner-take-all race for the GOP, McCain is the unofficial … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/beth-NY-primary-turnout.mp3] [Voters flocked to the polls in New York and 23 other states Tuesday to cast ballots in presidential primaries. Democracywise reporter Beth Croughan takes an early look at voter turnout. ] Even before Super Tuesday, voters have been breaking … Continue reading →

Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois lost big time to Sen. Hillary Clinton in her home state of New York in the Democratic presidential primary Tuesday. But for local Obama delegates and campaign volunteers, downplayed the loss in votes. Obama still … Continue reading →

Elections inspector Claire McGrheh ruffled through piles of paper, searching for a few more envelopes. “They didn’t give me enough!” she says. Meanwhile, several voters waited behind her at the table, clutching ballots. McGrheh, one of four elections inspectors at … Continue reading →

With little suspense, Sen. Hillary Clinton of New York won her home state’s Democratic primary and Sen. John McCain of Arizona was the Republican winner Tuesday. On the Super Tuesday, a virtual national primary day, 24 states went to poll, … Continue reading →

With homestater Rudy Giuliani out of the race, Sen. John McCain of Arizona made a clean sweep across New York in the Super Tuesday Republican presidential primary. Statewide, with 96 percent of precincts reporting, McCain had 51 percent of the … Continue reading →

John Edwards grabbed enough votes for third place in Tuesday’s New York primary, despite dropping out of the race for the Democratic nomination for president last week. And Edwards’ die-hard supporters turned out in 21 other states holding Democratic primaries … Continue reading →

The Iraq war is a top issue for many New Yorkers and other voters in the presidential primary on Tuesday. Some voters, like members of the Syracuse Peace Council, want the troops home from Iraq immediately. The American invasion, says … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Studentsdontvote11.mp3] [College students are turning out in record numbers to vote for presidential candidates this year. Democracywise reporter Beth Croughan tells us about one group of college students and their new-found interest in politics. ] College students don’t vote, according … Continue reading →

With the Iraq war much on voters’ minds, Republican presidential candidates Mitt Romney and John McCain offer slightly different choices of war strategy in Tuesday’s primary. McCain, senator of Arizona, was a POW in Vietnam. He has been a steadfast … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/NY-Primary-Experience-v.-Change-Schwartz.mp3] [Experience or change? New York Democrats must decide in Tuesday’s primary election between Senator Hillary Clinton and Illinois Senator Barack Obama. Shelly Schwartz of Democracywise tells us how two simple words have fueled the Democratic presidential race but may … Continue reading →

Student supporters of Sen. Barack Obama have been campaigning persistently on Syracuse University’s campus ahead of New York primary election Tuesday, riding a wave of youth support for Obama across the nation. “The student vote is resonating with Sen. Obama,” … Continue reading →

As a graduate student at Syracuse University, Terri Neal will choose her presidential candidate with a keen eye to a big issue: the high cost of college. “I’m concerned that the price of tuition keeps jumping every year by six … Continue reading →

Don’t trust opinion polls in deciding how to vote on Tuesday. That’s the advice from political scientists and pollsters alike: The polls can be wrong. “It’s a teaser, it’s titillating. We all like to try to predict the future, but … Continue reading →

The rising price of gasoline is a driving force in the presidential primary Tuesday. “The prices are too, too high,” said Margaret Asaju of Syracuse’s east side. She, like many other voters in Onondaga County, sees the effect of the … Continue reading →

Getting health care is a costly crisis for a growing number of Americans. And that has made health care a major issue as voters cast their ballots in Tuesday’s presidential primaries. Consider these health care statistics: The families of 61.6 … Continue reading →

In a decades-old tradition, 13 Newhouse students covered the New Hampshire primaries for 2008. For the first time, the primaries were outside of the usual semester time-frame. So the students did what journalists do: They gave up holidays and rest … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 8)—Hillary Clinton supporters had something to celebrate Tuesday night with an unexpected win in the New Hampshire Democrat primary. Clinton, a New York state senator won the primary with 39 percent of the vote, after a tight … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 8) – At a polling booth in Manchester, Nicky Lito exercised his voting right by choosing the former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee as the Republican presidential nominee. Nicky is 8 years old. “I voted for Mike Huckabee,” … Continue reading →

Concord New Hampshire West Congressional Church (Ward 2) 9:00 AM It’s game time. The polls are open and voters have started casting their ballots bright and early in New Hampshire on Tuesday. In Concord, Abigail Lange, a homemaker and community … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Beth5-PeaceBus-Story.mp3] CONCORD, N.H. (Jan.7) INTRO: For 50,000 miles, the Peace Bus has been on the road. WATD News reporter Beth Croughan tells us about the Peace Bus and its journey in New Hampshire. Jim Goodnow is a Texas resident and … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Primary-SOT-Wrapup.mp3] For the week of the New Hampshire primaries, three Newhouse broadcast journalism students — Shelly Schwartz, Beth Croughan and Joyce Ogirri — covered the election for WATD Radio in Marshfield, Mass. This is is a final report — a … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Beth6-ClintonWins.mp3] NASHUA, NH (Jan, 8th) INTRO: The polls aren’t always right. Senator Hillary Clinton upset Senator Barack Obama in New Hampshire. WATD News reporter Beth Croughan tells us why the unexpected winner was the Senator from New York. After coming … Continue reading →

NASHUA, N.H. (Jan.8) — His vibrant call for “change” wasn’t enough for voters to give Sen. Barack Obama the Democratic presidential nomination in the New Hampshire Primary on Tuesday. Obama, senator from Illinois, finished second in a duel with Hillary … Continue reading →

BEDFORD, N.H. (Jan. 8) Republican Mitt Romney has lost the New Hampshire presidential primary. He conceded defeat with images of Olympic medals for first and second place. He took second — the silver medal. [“There have been three races. So … Continue reading →

CONCORD N.H. (Jan. 8) —Democratic Sen. Hillary Clinton of New York staged a comeback in New Hampshire by defeating Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., in a tight race Tuesday night. “I felt like we all spoke from our hearts and I … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Shelly-NH6-Election-night-McCain-Wins-MP3.mp3] NASHUA, N.H. (Jan. 9) [“Mac is back” for now. Arizona Senator John McCain clinched first place in New Hampshire’s primary last night after a fourth place finish in Iowa just last week. WATD’s Election 2008 Reporter Shelly Schwartz tells … Continue reading →

NASHUA, N.H. — Republican John McCain, senator from Arizona, and Democrat Hillary Clinton, senator from New York, won their parties’ nominations for president in the New Hampshire primaries on Tuesday. “Tonight,” McCain told a cheering crowd, “we sure showed them … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 8) — In an extremely tight race, Sen. Hillary Clinton has a slim victory over Sen. Barack Obama for the Democratic presidential nomination. At 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday, the projected results for the Democratic race had Clinton … Continue reading →

NASHUA, N.H. (Jan. 8) — John McCain blew away his competitors Tuesday night as he won the New Hampshire Republican presidential primary. “Tonight we sure showed them what a comeback looks like,” McCain, a senator from Arizona, said. In the … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 8) — After a third-place finish in Tuesday’s primary here, John Edwards vowed he would soldier on in his quest to win the Democratic nomination for president. “I want to be clear to the 99 percent of … Continue reading →

ANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan 8) — The race between Democrats Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama remained tight late Tuesday night, with Clinton in the lead. As of 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, The Associated Press had called the race as a win for … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. – Spirits remained high at Democrat John Edwards’ primary night party, in spite of a third-place finish. “I am in this race until we have actually restored the American dream,” Edwards said on Tuesday night in his concession … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Richard-7-Hope2.mp3] CONCORD, N.H. (Jan.8) — Mike Huckabee is spending his last day in New Hampshire visiting polling stations and thanking voters.  Richard Zussman was with Huckabee most of today and say Huckabee is campaigning hard to be the second U.S. … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Richard-8-Arkansas2.mp3] CONCORD, N.H. (Jan.8) — Voters are heading to cast their ballots today in New Hampshire.  Richard Zussman tells us that Mike Huckabee’s Arkansas experience has prepared him for tonight and onwards. NAT SOUND Mike Huckabee is spending his last … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan.8)—Vote for the person, not the party. That’s the sense Scott Daniels gets from the voters of New Hampshire. “They take it seriously. They like to be independent and not be influenced by anything other than what they … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan.8)- Outside of the Brookside Congregational Church, John Knieriem and Bob Conway don’t mind standing in the icy parking lot to chat. The topic: today’s election for the presidential candidates from both parties in New Hampshire. “Who do … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 7) – In the election excitement, groups with a special cause try to be heard. “We are not trying to support any particular candidate,” Emily Adler said. She represented Appalachian Voice at Republican Sen. John McCain’s rally … Continue reading →

ROCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 8) — With voters at the polls today, Robert Tingle of Westerly, R.I., and Scott Bill Hirst of Ashaway, R.I., are seeing the results of their hard work. “We’re up here to do whatever we can to … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Joyce-NH3-Teen-Voters.mp3] Concord, N.H. (Jan. 7) Katie Perry began her journey into politics when her mother took her to the voting booths at the age of 7. Now at the age of 20, she is a volunteer with the non-partisan New … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Shelly-NH5-haircut.mp3] CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 7) [Remember that 400 hundred dollar haircut for John Edwards? Well, now a lot of the candidates are paying the same price. WATD’s Election 2008 Reporter Shelly Schwartz tells us how Hair Biz Salon in Concord … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 6) – With primary day looming, the leading Republicancandidates for president scrambled to gather last-minute converts. “My friends, I’m asking for your vote,” Republican John McCain, senator of Arizona, said at one of his rallies on Monday. … Continue reading →

OVER N.H. (Jan. 7) — With only hours until voting starts, New York Democrat Hillary Clinton intensified her self-portrait on Monday as the change agent who also has experience. “I have what I believe to be the advantage of years … Continue reading →

NASHUA, N.H. (Jan. 7) — A relentless John Edwards made his final plea to New Hampshire voters with a 36-hour bus marathon leading up to Tuesday’s primary. “While everybody else goes to high-glamour events and goes to bed tonight, I’m … Continue reading →

CONCORD, NH (Jan. 7)- Change? Or experience? Those are the choices that the presidential candidates from both parties are pitching to New Hampshire voters in the closing hours before the primaries on Tuesday. “I think it’s time for change, but … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Richard-6-Huckaburger2.mp3] CONCORD, N.H. (Jan.7) — This morning the Barley House became home to a new culinary creation—The Huckaburger.  Richard Zussman lays out the recipe. The Barley House in Concord, New Hampshire, calls itself the home of America’s best hamburgers.  Governor … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 5) — For Elizabeth Kucinich and Whitney Stewart Gravel, health care and the Iraq war gave chances to support their husbands Saturday. “I am so happy I married a man who believes in universal healthcare,” said Elizabeth … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Richard-5-Fire2.mp3] CONCORD, N.H. (Jan.6) — Some Arkansas Travelers are in new living quarters after a hotel fire in Nashua, New Hampshire.  Richard Zussman tells us these Hillary Clinton supporters are still in good spirits even after the fire. Tim Giattina … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 6) — Kevin Whitbeck’s car is covered in stickers supporting Republican presidential nomination candidate Ron Paul, a congressman from Texas. “This is my first presidential election and I feel I need to make a stand,” said Whitbeck, … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Shelly-NH4-McCain-Protest.mp3] SALEM, N.H. (Jan. 7) [Where presidential candidates go, protestors follow in a final effort to sway voters. WATD’s Election 2008 Reporter Shelly Schwartz tells us how a town hall meeting with Republican presidential candidate John McCain turned into a … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Beth4-Romney-fixit.mp3] NASHUA, N.H. (Jan.7) INTRO: With the clock ticking down to Primary Day, presidential candidates are promising big change to New Hampshire voters, WATD News reporter Beth Croughan tells us about Mitt Romney’s final campaign efforts. Change is a common … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 7) — Try the Huckaburger. That’s the latest political entrée at The Barley House, a restaurant right across from the state capitol and famous for its gourmet hamburgers. This one is named for Republican presidential candidate Mike … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 6) — Some answered phones. Some knocked on doors. Others hoisted signs on snowy street corners. And some made sure the campaign bus was stocked with extra doughnuts. “We’re really all grunts here,” as Richard Beinecke so … Continue reading →

SALEM N.H. (Jan. 6) — With a six-point lead in the latest Concord Monitor poll,  Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., sought to boost his presidential bid on Sunday by links to veterans and talk of military experience. “My first priority is … Continue reading →

NASHUA, N.H. (Jan. 6) — With two days left until the primary, Democrat Hillary Clinton is working to sell herself as the candidate both of change and of experience. “We want a president who can go to work on the … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 4): He has the “bounce” of Iowa. Democrat Barack Obama  goes into Tuesday’s primary already benefiting from his first-place victory in the Iowa caucuses. Independent and undecided New Hampshire voters already felt more comfortable settling on Obama … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 6) — The double-parking. The street traffic. The fliers. The “Honk 4 Huckabee” signs. None of it bothers local residents all that much. “Most people are pretty respectful,” said Jim Lupien, “except when you get 10 fliers” … Continue reading →

NASHUA, N.H.(Jan. 4) — The airport-hangar welcome for Sen. Hillary Clinton was a portrait of patriotism: Giant American flags adorned the white-washed walls and shiny windows. More giant American flags sparkled on Clinton’s campaign bus.Smaller American flags wafted back and … Continue reading →

Manchester, N.H. (Jan. 4) [“We want Elizabeth! We want John! We want to see them! On the White House lawn!”] (Sound of supporters) With fiery chants, supporters welcomed Democrat John Edwards to New Hampshire’s presidential race on Friday. Steelworkers. Shipyard … Continue reading →

SALEM, N.H. (Jan. 6) —  Power to the people. In a surprising twist, protestors lined the walkway outside Woodbury School in Salem, Sunday afternoon. Sen. John McCain of Arizona, held a town hall meeting in New Hampshire, where he has … Continue reading →

NASHUA, N.H. (Jan. 5) — Presidential candidates court the votes of Americans of Indian origin. “If you don’t vote for me on Tuesday — shame on you!” former Alaska Sen. Mike Gravel, a Democratic candidate for presidency told a gathering … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 6) — John Edwards and Barack Obama joined forces Saturday night, pouncing on Hillary Clinton and marketing themselves as the only two “agents of change” in the Democratic campaign. In a heated debate, Edwards and Obama remained … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 5) — Santa Claus. A polar bear. The Statue of Liberty. Oh, and then there’s the snowman. Their cause? Stopping global warming. “It doesn’t just go away,” said Zo Tobi, a volunteer with the Carbon Coalition who … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/immigration-debate-mp3.mp3] MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 6) [Immigration was one of the hot topics among Republican presidential candidates in last night’s debate in Manchester. The debates were sponsored by Facebook, ABC News and WMUR at Saint Anselm College. WATD’s Primary 2008 Reporter … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Richard-4-Education2.mp3] CONCORD, N.H.  (Jan.5) — Mike Huckabee is getting reinforcement in New Hampshire from a friend and former colleague from Arkansas.  Richard Zussman tells us about an education expert who will be helping the former governor in the Granite State. … Continue reading →

[audio: https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/Richard-3.mp3] CONCORD, N.H.  (Jan.4) — Mike Huckabee has launched his New Hampshire campaign a day after his victory in the Iowa caucuses. Richard Zussman tells us Huckabee comes into New Hampshire with help from his home state. Little Rock … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Joyce-NH3-Spin-Doctors.mp3] MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 6) Spin room. Spin Doctors. Spin the images. It’s a tradition at debates like the ones here at St. Anselm College Saturday night. After the candidates leave the stage, their spinmeisters take over to paint the … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Democratic-Debate-Beth-Nh3.mp3] MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 6) Intro – Democrats tangled over who can bring the most change to America in their debate in Manchester on Saturday night. WATD News reporter Beth Croughan tells us how the debate went at Saint Anselm … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan.4) — The top three Democratic presidential contenders blew into cold weather and warm welcomes in New Hampshire on Friday for the next round of campaigning. Just hours earlier in Iowa, Barack Obama had bested fellow Democrats John … Continue reading →

LONDONDERRY, N.H. (Jan. 5) — An event for local Londonderry charities Saturday morning turned into a rock concert and media frenzy when former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee (R) took the stage. But in an unusual twist, Huckabee didn’t campaign for … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H (Jan. 5) — This election, the presidential contenders are looking for action from a special group of voters: the young. “I feel like it’s more power to us,” said Joshua Sawyer, an 18-year-old from Northfield, N.H. “We’re the … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 5) — Do not pay attention to these presidential candidates. Rep. Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio. Rep. Ron Paul, R-Texas. Former Sen. Mike Gravel, D-Alaska. Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Calif. They do not have a chance of winning their party’s … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan.5) — Presidential hopeful John Edwards has been storming through New Hampshire since his arrival Friday, pleading his case as an underdog ready to lead the nation. “I was an underdog in Iowa, you saw what happened there,” … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 5) From Chicago, 60 students from 12 high schools come to New Hampshire to volunteer on all the presidential campaigns. Sharhonda Dawson runs the extracurricular program called “Elections and Actions.” [“Elections and Actions is basically a philosophy … Continue reading →

MANCHESTER, N.H. (Jan. 4) — The door was locked. The office was deserted. The lights were out. Welcome to the headquarters of the now-abandoned presidential campaign of Sen. Christopher Dodd, D-Conn. He dropped out of the race for the Democratic … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 4) — The Democratic presidential candidates landed in New Hampshire Friday morning with personal flair. Front-runners John Edwards, Hillary Clinton and Iowa caucus winner Barack Obama each organized rallies, letting supporters know they are prepared to battle … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 4) — The Democrats are here. With Iowa behind them, candidates for the Democratic presidential nomination arrived in New Hampshire on Friday for the last few days of campaigning leading up to the state’s primary on Tuesday, … Continue reading →

[audio: https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/HillaryRally.mp3] [In New Hampshire, presidential candidates are arriving from Iowa following last night’s caucuses. Senator Hillary Clinton finished a close third in Iowa, and she arrived in New Hampshire this morning looking for victory. WATD’s Primary 2008 Reporter Shelly … Continue reading →

[audio: https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Richard2-audio.mp3] CONCORD, N.H. — Senator Hillary Clinton is getting some help from one of her old home states.  Richard Zussman tells us Arkansans are traveling across the country to New Hampshire to help the former first lady. State Representative Gregg … Continue reading →

[audio: https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Barack-Obama-Story-2.mp3] INTRO: After last night’s win in Iowa, Democratic candidate Senator Barack Obama came to New Hampshire to begin his campaign for the January 8th primary. WATD reporter Beth Croughan tells us about the welcome he received in the … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N. H. –Now for Round 2. John Edwards, America’s newest middleman, is fighting for the middle class. “I am not the candidate of glitz. I am not the candidate of glamour. I am the candidate of the people’s America,” … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. — Get personal. That’s the message to the presidential candidates from New Hampshire voters. The rest of the country settles for seeing candidates on the television screen. But here in Concord’s coffee shops — yep, presidential contenders still … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NewTrends-in-New-Hampshire2.mp3] Political fashions are everywhere.  The State House in Concord has the famous “Button Wall.” While at The Barley House tavern, the fad is autographed barstools. Let’s start with those buttons. Virginia Drew runs the Visitors’ Center at the State … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. — The regulars at the Brown Bag Deli drank their coffee huddled in a tight corner on Thursday morning. The rest of the small sandwich shop, which can comfortably hold 15, was packed with about 50 John McCain … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. – Forget Chris Dodd. The other Connecticut Senator — the one who’s not running for president — is campaigning for someone else. Sen. Joe Lieberman, once a Democrat and now an Independent Democrat, has crossed state and party … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. (Jan. 4) — Health care is bringing scores of union workers to New Hampshire to campaign for Democrat John Edwards. The main union support comes from the Service Employees International Union. About 30 members packed a hotel meeting … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. — They’re packing their bags with extra sweaters. They’re bringing along students. They’re making a family event out of politics. They’re the political volunteers from Worcester County volunteers heading here for the nation’s first presidential primary on Jan. … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Paul-Supporters.mp3] From the sights and sounds in Concord, New Hampshire, Ron Paul supporters are overpowering other campaigns. [“Ron Paul Revolution.” “ Give us back our constitution.” “ Ron Paul Revolution.! “Give us back our constitution”] Sound of drumbeats Led by … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. — Forget Iowa. The real excitement starts here today, as New Hampshire voters take their turn in the national spotlight. Take, for example, Cy Wheeler of Concord. He was expecting his candidate — Democrat Barack Obama, senator from … Continue reading →

CONCORD, NEW HAMPSHIRE — As the presidential election moves here today, many New Hampshire voters remain undecided about the candidates. “I am a registered Democrat, and I will vote a Democrat,” Maura Willing said, who is a homemaker. “But I … Continue reading →

CONCORD, N.H. — For Scott Cathy, the move from Churchville-Chili to New Hampshire has one big consolation: Primary week. “It’s what I enjoy about living in New Hampshire. Regardless of your political beliefs, you get everything,” Cathy said in a … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/COFFEE-SHOP.mp3] [“I’ll have a small peppermint mocha.”] Beep beep beep. Ching Ching. (Sound of Cash Register) Along with the caffeine at New Hampshire coffee shops, customers also get a big helping of politics. Take for example, Daniel Lord. He lives … Continue reading →

[audio:https://democracywise.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/Richard-1-Volunteer2.mp3] Former Governor Mike Huckabee’s campaign office in New Hampshire is getting prepared for Huckabee’s arrival here tomorrow. Richard Zussman tells us Huckabee volunteers in New Hampshire are excited for the primary to get under way. NAT SOUND. One by … Continue reading →