This November, one of the interesting indicators of a political shift could come from New Hampshire.
Why New Hampshire? While pundits have always watched this state for one reason or another, this year it has an extra added dynamic. Last October, the Free State Project chose New Hampshire as their state to focus on relocating 5,000 activists, with the goal of growing to 20,000 and organizing towards political reform in that state. While not all are Libertarians, a good number are, including Jason Sorens, the founder and leader of the organization.
While the activists who did not "opt out" (FSP members were allowed to choose a number of states to which they would not relocate if they were chosen) have five years to move and remain true to their commitment, a fair number moved within months of the announcement. These individuals will be working, canvassing, and campaigning for the upcoming election. If the Libertarians among them remain true to their LP roots and support Michael Badnarik, a strong showing could be made within the state. Not necessarily a win, per se (although we LP loyals could only hope), but a showing strong enough to make a ripple in the final results, unlike the traditional LP candidates who show in the "other" category.
Other states to watch are Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, and Nevada, where a number of people who were FSP members but opted out of New Hampshire (including myself) have relocated and are working to make a political impact.
signing off,
Gideon MacLeish