Simple But Powerful!

Click To View Democracy Team Member Toolkit

 Keep up with Open Democracy by following us on social media :

• Facebook: *NEW* Open Democracy Action Teams (Group) / Open Democracy NH / Open Democracy Action
• Instagram: opendemocracyaction 
• Bluesky: odaction.bsky.social
• Twitter: OpenDemocracyNH / OpenDemoAction
• TikTok: opendemocracyaction

Join our Slack channel to discuss these actions with others in your community!

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• Click to send a thank-you email to Secretary of State David Scanlan for protecting voter privacy.
• Click here to send a thank-you email to Governor Ayotte for reiterating her stance against mid-decade redistricting.

• providing a copy of ID with the absentee ballot application
• providing a notarized signature on the absentee ballot application
• presenting an ID in person to the town or city clerk or their designee before being provided an absentee ballot 

Under SB 218, which takes effect the same day, voters who are registering via absentee ballot must also provide proof of citizenship with their application. While the law does eliminate the outdated requirement of placing ballots in outer envelopes when returned in person, the overall impact is likely to disenfranchise many absentee voters—particularly students, seniors, and members of the disability community. 

With cities holding municipal elections this fall, it's important to reach as many people as possible with these updates. Find LTE submission guidelines HERE. 📝

• Many legislators will read their local papers, so LTEs are a great way to reach them. Best practices for LTEs include keeping them on one topic and relatively short while making a complete and compelling argument. Please do not hesitate to email our Communications Associate, Kaylie, for assistance with editing, submission, or any other questions! 
• For extra support, you can also reference this SB 287 advocacy toolkit from the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights for sample talking points.

3. VoterCon: Spread the word—and submit messages of encouragement! 🗳️

VoterCon 2025 is almost here! Join us on Saturday, October 4th (10AM–2PM) at the Concord Community Center! 🎉 Students, teachers, and volunteers from across NH will come together for a fun, hands-on day of learning how to run high school voter registration drives. 

This is also a great chance for high school students to earn volunteer hours and boost their resumes! Click here to RSVP—and remember, this event isn't just for students! If you've been looking for a way to get more involved in your community, this is the perfect opportunity.

Expect to see amazing organizations like 350NH, 603 Forward, NH Youth Movement, NH Civics, NH Center for Justice and Equity, Youth Success Project, 50501 NH, Disability Rights Center NH, and American Friends Service Committee!

🚗 Need a ride or gas stipend? Let us know! Reach out to [email protected].

Can't make it, but still want to contribute? Send us a 15-30 second video clip stating why youth voter registration is important to you! We will compile these into an inspirational video to present to participants at the conclusion of the day. Email submissions to [email protected]—don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.

4. Push for Poll Observers on October 7th

The Franklin Municipal Election is almost here, and we need to ensure all 3 wards are staffed with poll observers on 10/7 from 8AM to 7PM!

👉 As an observer, you’ll help ensure:

• Eligible voters are not unfairly turned away.
• Accessible voting machines are available and working.
• Voter ID rules are applied correctly and fairly.

Sign up and share your availability here. 

The next training session will be on Wednesday, October 1st at 6PM. Click here to RSVP!  If you cannot make it, please let us know and we will make sure to send you a recording and check in with you separately.

*BONUS* Americans of Conscience's Action 2 for this week: Oppose a sweeping overreach in voter-registration bureaucracy before October 20 by submitting a comment against the proposed proof of citizenship rule to the EAC, which would create unnecessary burdens for millions of eligible voters nationwide. 

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Actions for September 22-26

1. Sound the Alarm: Push Back on Harmful Student ID Bills, write an LTE ✍️

At Tuesday's House Election Law Committee Executive Session, several harmful voting bills moved forward. Two of the most egregious include CACR 4 and HB 323, each primarily targeting student voters.

CACR 4 would restrict voting to only ‘legal residents,’ eliminating the ability to claim domicile in New Hampshire without full legal residency. This extreme constitutional amendment would disenfranchise out-of-state students, elderly voters in care facilities, people experiencing homelessness, and families displaced by disasters who must temporarily live elsewhere. 

HB 323 requires the presentation of a government-issued photographic means of identification in order to vote.

It is essential that we make noise about these outrageous proposals. Find LTE submission guidelines HERE. 📝

• Many legislators will read their local papers, so LTEs are a great way to reach them. Best practices for LTEs include keeping them on one topic and relatively short while making a complete and compelling argument. Please do not hesitate to email our Communications Associate, Kaylie, for assistance with editing, submission, or any other questions! 

Below is the full list of bills voted on Tuesday: 

Voted OTP (ought to pass)

• CACR 4: relating to voting eligibility. Providing that only legal resident citizens who are at least 18 years of age or older who reside in the place they claim as a domicile shall be eligible voters.
• HB 686: No public employee shall electioneer while in the performance of his or her official duties.
• HB 317: preventing a supervisor of the checklist from verifying a person's identity without identification, even if they personally know that person.
• HB 323: requiring the presentation of a government-issued photographic means of identification in order to vote.
• HB 158: targets absentee voters by requiring clerks to flag and report ballot requests sent by mail to addresses different than that appearing on the checklist & addresses where 3 or more ballots were sent
• SB 103: I. Requires towns and cities to have at least one polling place per every 15,000 registered voters unless the town or city has received approval from the secretary of state and attorney general for fewer locations; II. Allows the secretary of state and attorney general to create conditions for towns and cities to follow if they seek to utilize one polling place for more than 15,000 voters.
• HB 463: relative to the composition of the board of recount in elections for the select board and for the school board.
• HB 590: relative to cooperative school district school board elections.

Voted ITL (inexpedient to legislate)

• HB 289: removes domicile for dependents of individuals who live outside of NH.
• HB 341: requiring the secretary of state to check voter records prior to every election.
• HB 693: relative to ballot counting procedures and permitting the hand counting of ballots.
• SB 44: relative to hand counts of ballots in elections.

2. Step Up as a Poll Observer for Franklin’s 10/7 Election 🔍

This past Tuesday in Manchester, poll observers tracked several voters who were unfortunately turned away for lacking certain documentation. To keep this critical data updated and gain a better sense of HB 1569's overall impact, we need more observers to cover Franklin’s three wards throughout its General Election on October 7th. 

Sign up for a training session below—the next one is this Wednesday at 6pm.

Poll Observers: help ensure eligible voters are not unfairly turned away, accessible voting machines are available and working, and that voter ID rules are applied correctly and fairly. During the 2025 town elections this past spring, observers like you documented nearly 100 voters turned away due to HB1569. Your participation this fall is essential to continuing this work.  Click to Share Poll Observer Social Media Graphic Nonpartisan Observer Recruitment Toolkit - full of helpful talking points and sample language to persuade your circle!

Training Sessions (click to RSVP):  September 24 @ 6PM October 1 @ 6PM October 29 @ 6PM

3. Tell your representatives: NH Needs Fair Maps, Not More Gerrymandering 📣

On Wednesday, Politico released the article White House puts New Hampshire on notice, referencing President Trump’s nationwide push for states to conduct mid-decade redistricting to directly benefit the conservative party.

According to the piece, "a person familiar with the White House’s thinking told West Wing Playbook that Trump’s team doesn’t plan to back off New Hampshire," and that "the White House is prepared to use a take-no-prisoners approach." 

Adding to the urgency, State Senator Dan Innis has officially filed a bill to commence mid-cycle districting in NH, despite Governor Ayotte noting in August that the "timing is off" for a redraw. This development emphasizes the need for action.

Use this customizable email template to write to your State Representatives and Senators and urge them to oppose such obvious power grabs.

🎧 BONUS ACTION: Tune in to the latest episode of NH Has Issues, featuring McKenzie Taylor, NH State Director of the NH Campaign for Voting Rights. She breaks down how voting works in New Hampshire with host Liz Canada—a very informative listen for anyone wanting to stay up to date on voting rights and access in the state!

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Actions for September 15-19

1. House Election Law Non-Germane Public Hearing & Executive Session—submit testimony against HB 686, email if you haven't already

The House Election Law Committee is scheduled to hold a Public Hearing and subsequent Executive Session on September 16th at 10AM. Due to ongoing renovations to the Legislative Office Building, the session will be held at Granite Place in Room 158. You can attend in person or watch the livestream online.

A non-germane hearing has been scheduled on HB 686, and we encourage you to come testify against it in person if possible. You can click here to submit testimony online. This bill used to require absentee ballot applications be notarized; it will now prevent public employees from electioneering. 

• This was rereferred this spring in HB 340 and vetoed in SB 213
• Originated after Rep. Berry and Sen. Murphy sued Goffstown Public Library over publishing candidate questionnaires (lawsuit dismissed).
  • Could silence public employees from sharing expertise—raising First Amendment concerns.
  • Teachers, firefighters, and police chiefs should be able to speak on issues that affect their work and communities.
• Click here to submit testimony against HB 686 online

If you have not already, you can click here to email the committee with our customizable template urging them to kill anti-democracy voting bills retained earlier this year. These include:

Domicile & ID Restrictions

• CACR4: relating to voting eligibility. Providing that only legal resident citizens who are at least 18 years of age or older who reside in the place they claim as a domicile shall be eligible voters.
• HB289: removes domicile for dependents of individuals who live outside of NH.
• HB317: preventing a supervisor of the checklist from verifying a person's identity without identification, even if they personally know that person.
• HB323: removes student IDs and out of state IDs from acceptable identity documents

Voter Privacy and Data Misuse

• HB158: targets absentee voters by requiring clerks to flag and report ballot requests sent by mail to addresses different than that appearing on the checklist & addresses where 3 or more ballots were sent
• HB341: requiring the secretary of state to check voter records prior to every election.

Ballot Counting & Election Integrity

• HB693: relative to ballot counting procedures and permitting the hand counting of ballots.
• SB44: relative to hand counts of ballots in elections.

Click here to spread the word to friends—share this graphic on the Executive Session.

2. Manchester's Municipal Primary Election is this Tuesday—Poll Workers Still Needed! 

If you live in Manchester, make sure you have a plan to vote. If you are registering to vote, be sure to bring proof of age, citizenship, identity, and domicile. Polls will be open from 6AM-7PM. Click here to view a sample ballot. There will also be a State Special Election Primary in Berlin, and polls are open from 8AM-7PM.

⚠️ Some wards in Manchester are still in need of volunteer poll workers. These are wards 4, 11, 12, and especially 5. If you live in one of these wards and are able to volunteer on Tuesday, please contact the City Clerk, Matthew Normand, (603) 624-6455. 

Not sure which ward you live in? Click here. If needed, you may be able to serve as a poll worker in a different ward than you vote in. A small stipend is provided. 

Some cities also still need Election Officials to put their names on the ballot in November:

City & Filing Period (Click to contact City Clerk, Current Filings Linked if Available)	Positions Needed
Nashua Filing Period closed; Contact City Clerk about write-in campaign	Moderators: W4, W5, W6 Clerks: W2, W4, W5, W6
Concord Filing Period: 9/5-9/15	Ward 1, 2 & 6 Moderator and Clerk
Rochester Filing Period: 9/5-9/22	Moderators: W1, W2, W5, W6 Supervisors of the Checklist: W1, W2, W6 Clerks: W1, W4, W5, W6 Selectman: W1, W2, W6
Dover Filing Period: 9/8-9/19	Moderators: W1, W5, W6 Supervisors of the Checklist: W1, W3, W5, W6 Clerks: W1, W2, W5, W6 Selectpersons: W1 (2), W2 (2), W3 (1), W5 (2)
Somersworth Filing Period: 9/10-9/25	Clerks: W1, W2, W3, W5 Moderators: W3, W5 Selectman: W1 (3), W2 (1), W3 (3), W4 (2), W5 (3)
Claremont  Filing Period: 9/17-9/26	3 Supervisors of the Checklist, 3 Moderators, 3 Ward Clerks
Berlin Filing Period: 9/22-10/6	Moderator (4), Ward Clerk (4), Supervisor of the Checklist (12)

3. Email Senators to vote NO on the SAVE Act

We need your help to stop the harmful SAVE Act, a bill that would make it harder for millions of eligible Americans to register and vote. It was passed by the House in April and is now awaiting debate in the Senate. 

At the same time, Trump announced he will sign an Executive Order to eliminate vote-by-mail, replace voting machines, and put state elections under federal control. This isn’t reform, it’s a power grab. It strips away basic freedoms like vote-by-mail and drop boxes, and it’s a direct attack on our freedom to vote.

What you can do: Email your Senator today and tell them to vote NO on the SAVE Act! It only takes a few minutes to make your voice heard.

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Actions for September 8-12

1. Urge members of House Election Law Committee to vote down anti-democracy voting bills! 

This week, we're focusing on on bills with domicile and ID restrictions: Use this customizable email template to contact the Committee!

The House Election Law Committee is scheduled to hold an Executive Session on September 16th at 10AM. Due to ongoing renovations to the Legislative Office Building, the session will be held at Granite Place in Room 158. You can attend in person or watch the livestream online.

Members of the committee will discuss and vote on whether or not to advance bills retained earlier this year, including:

Domicile & ID Restrictions

• CACR4: relating to voting eligibility. Providing that only legal resident citizens who are at least 18 years of age or older who reside in the place they claim as a domicile shall be eligible voters.
• HB289: removes domicile for dependents of individuals who live outside of NH.
• HB317: preventing a supervisor of the checklist from verifying a person's identity without identification, even if they personally know that person.
• HB323:Removes student IDs and out of state IDs from acceptable identity documents
• HB686: requiring a voter to provide identification when requesting an absentee ballot.

Voter Privacy and Data Misuse

• HB158: targets absentee voters by requiring clerks to flag and report ballot requests sent by mail to addresses different than that appearing on the checklist & addresses where 3 or more ballots were sent
• HB341: requiring the secretary of state to check voter records prior to every election.

Ballot Counting & Election Integrity

• HB693: relative to ballot counting procedures and permitting the hand counting of ballots.
• SB44: relative to hand counts of ballots in elections.

Many of these bills would make voting harder, increase the risk of inaccurate counts, and unfairly target absentee voters—a bloc of voters who will already have it significantly harder with the recent passage of SB 287 and SB 218. 

Use this customizable email template to voice your concerns—personalization encouraged! 

2. Poll Observers & Workers Needed—Spread the Word!

Primary Elections (3)

• Manchester: September 16th
  • Additional observers urgently needed
    • Observer Training Sessions - Click to RSVP
      • *NEW* September 11 @6PM
      • September 24 @ 6PM
      • October 1 @ 6PM
      • October 29 @ 6PM
  • Additional workers urgently needed in wards 4, 5, 11, 12
    • Poll Worker Info Sessions - Click to RSVP
      • September 10 @6PM 
      • September 25 @ 6PM
      • October 16 @ 6PM
• Keene: October 7th (not recruiting)
• Laconia: September 9th (not recruiting)

General Election

• Franklin: October 7th
• Berlin, Claremont, Concord, Dover, Keene, Laconia, Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth, Rochester, and Somersworth: November 4th

👉 Want to help out, but are busy on Election Day? Help us spread the word! These toolkits courtesy of the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights contain sample email language and social media posts! 

• Nonpartisan Poll Observer Recruitment Toolkit – Fall 2025

• Poll Worker Recruitment Toolkit – Fall 2025

3. Write a letter to the editor (LTE) regarding the September 16th Executive Session and/or the Upcoming Municipal Elections.

Encourage readers to:

• Contact members of the House Election Law Committee and tell them that NH doesn't need MORE restrictions on voting.

• Consider volunteering as poll workers or election observers.

  • AND make sure they understand what’s required to vote amidst recent law changes.

 Find submission guidelines HERE. 📝

• Many legislators will read their local papers, so LTEs are a great way to reach them. Best practices for LTEs include keeping them on one topic and relatively short while making a complete and compelling argument. Please do not hesitate to email our Communications Associate, Kaylie, for assistance with editing, submission, or any other questions! 

*BONUS ACTION*: Share NH Bulletin Op-Ed by Ethan Underhill: New Hampshire needs to return to its tradition of practical access for voters

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Actions for September 1-5

1. Urge members of House Election Law Committee to vote down anti-democracy voting bills! Use this customizable email template.

The House Election Law Committee is scheduled to hold an Executive Session on September 16th at 10AM. Due to ongoing renovations to the Legislative Office Building, the session will be held at Granite Place in Room 158. You can attend in person or watch the livestream online.

Members of the committee will discuss and vote on whether or not to advance bills retained earlier this year, including:

• CACR4: relating to voting eligibility. Providing that only legal resident citizens who are at least 18 years of age or older who reside in the place they claim as a domicile shall be eligible voters.
• HB158: relative to public inspection of absentee ballot lists.
• HB281: requiring electronic voter checklists to be supplied in a sortable format.
• HB289: regarding domicile qualifications for voting.
• HB317: preventing a supervisor of the checklist from verifying a person's identity without identification, even if they personally know that person.
• HB323: requiring the presentation of a government-issued photographic means of identification in order to vote.
• HB341: requiring the secretary of state to check voter records prior to every election.
• HB686: requiring a voter to provide identification when requesting an absentee ballot.
• HB693: relative to ballot counting procedures and permitting the hand counting of ballots.
• SB44: relative to hand counts of ballots in elections.

As you may be able to tell at first glance, many of these bills would make the voting process harder, lead to more inaccurate vote counts, and unfairly target absentee voters—a bloc of voters who will already have it significantly harder with the recent passage of SB 287 and SB 218. 

Use this customizable email template to voice your concerns—personalization encouraged!

2. Attend a "Workers Over Billionaires - National Day of Action" event in your community this Labor Day, Monday, September 1!

Open Democracy will have a table at the 11AM-3PM Concord event hosted by 50-50-1 NH, where Senator Bernie Sanders and Congressman Ro Khanna are scheduled speakers. 

Other confirmed events around the state include:

• Enfield, 2:30-4PM
• Haverhill, 12-2PM
• Keene, 12-2PM
• Manchester, 7:30-9:30AM
  • Senator Sanders speaking
• Nashua, 4:30-6:30PM
  • Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander & Congressman Ro Khanna speaking
• Pelham, 10AM-1PM
• Peterborough, 12-1:30PM
• Portsmouth, 4-5PM
• Walpole, 1-3PM
• Wolfeboro, 12-2PM

Whichever event you choose to attend, please be safe and observant!

3. Sign up to be a Poll Worker or Nonpartisan Observer, and spread the word! 🗳️

With fall municipal elections right around the corner, we’re kicking off poll observer and worker recruitment!

Primary Elections (3)

• Manchester: September 16th
• Keene: October 7th (not recruiting)
• Laconia: September 9th (not recruiting)

General Election

• Franklin: October 7th
• Berlin, Claremont, Concord, Dover, Keene, Laconia, Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth, Rochester, and Somersworth: November 4th

As an observer, you’ll help ensure:

• Eligible voters are not unfairly turned away.
• Accessible voting machines are available and working.
• Voter ID rules are applied correctly and fairly.

Even short shifts help—full day coverage is ideal. Observers receive training, materials, and direct support. Remember, a boring day for an observer is a great day for democracy! During the 2025 town elections this past spring, observers like you documented over 100 voters turned away due to HB1569. Your participation this fall is essential to continuing this work.

• Observer Training Sessions - Click to RSVP
  • September 3 @ 6PM
  • September 24 @ 6PM
  • October 1 @ 6PM
  • October 29 @ 6PM

As a poll worker, you'll assist with:

• Greeting voters as they enter the polling place
• Marking the checklist & handing out ballots
• Helping voters in need at the ballot booths
• Handing out stickers
• Receiving ballots at the box
• Processing and/or counting ballots

*Poll workers must be registered voters and be a resident of the voting district.

Poll workers are essential to keeping our elections safe, secure, and accessible. Without enough poll workers, polling places can’t open, lines get longer, and voters risk being turned away. Volunteering as a poll worker is a single, day-long commitment.

• Poll Worker Info Sessions - Click to RSVP
  • September 25, 2025 @ 6PM
  • October 16, 2025 @ 6PM

*BONUS ACTION*: If you weren't able to attend our Summer Fellow Ben Radcliffe's Anti-Climate Dark Money in NH presentation earlier this week, watch the recording here!

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Actions for August 25-29

1. Sign up to be a Poll Worker or Nonpartisan Observer, and spread the word! 🗳️

With fall municipal elections right around the corner, we’re kicking off poll observer and worker recruitment!

Primary Elections (3)

• Manchester: September 16th
• Keene: October 7th (not recruiting)
• Laconia: September 9th (not recruiting)

General Election

• Franklin: October 7th
• Berlin, Claremont, Concord, Dover, Keene, Laconia, Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth, Rochester, and Somersworth: November 4th

As an observer, you’ll help ensure:

• Eligible voters are not unfairly turned away.
• Accessible voting machines are available and working.
• Voter ID rules are applied correctly and fairly.

Even short shifts help—full day coverage is ideal. Observers receive training, materials, and direct support. Remember, a boring day for an observer is a great day for democracy! During the 2025 town elections this past spring, observers like you documented over 100 voters turned away due to HB1569. Your participation this fall is essential to continuing this work.

• Observer Training Sessions - Click to RSVP
  • September 3 @ 6PM
  • September 24 @ 6PM
  • October 1 @ 6PM
  • October 29 @ 6PM

As a poll worker, you'll assist with:

• Greeting voters as they enter the polling place
• Marking the checklist & handing out ballots
• Helping voters in need at the ballot booths
• Handing out stickers
• Receiving ballots at the box
• Processing and/or counting ballots

*Poll workers must be registered voters and be a resident of the voting district.

Poll workers are essential to keeping our elections safe, secure, and accessible. Without enough poll workers, polling places can’t open, lines get longer, and voters risk being turned away. Volunteering as a poll worker is a single, day-long commitment.

• Poll Worker Info Sessions - Click to RSVP
  • September 25, 2025 @ 6PM
  • October 16, 2025 @ 6PM

2. Contact your representatives about sponsoring pro-democracy bills for the 2026 Legislative Session.

Our priorities are clear: governmental transparency, campaign finance reform, expanding and protecting voter rights, and creating fair redistricting maps and processes. To advance these goals, we need strong legislation—and your help to make it happen.

Bill submission deadlines are fast approaching: 

• House Bill Submission Deadline: Friday, September 19th @ 4pm
• Senate Bill Submission Deadline: Friday, September 12th @4pm 

✅ Here’s how you can help:

1. Add your ideas to our bill brainstorm document.

2. Reach out to your representatives and ask if they would be willing to work on or sponsor pro-democracy legislation aligned with these priorities.

• Who is my State Representative?
• Who is my State Senator?
  • Sample script:
    • Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I live in [Town]. I care about strengthening our democracy through governmental transparency, protecting voter rights, fair redistricting, and campaign finance reform. With bill deadlines coming up, I wanted to ask if you’d be open to working on or sponsoring pro-democracy legislation next session.

3. Save the date: VoterCon 2025 🗳️

Join us for VoterCon 2025 on Saturday, October 4th (10AM–2PM) at the Concord Community Center! 🎉 Students, teachers, and volunteers from across NH will come together for a fun, hands-on day of learning how to run high school voter registration drives. 

You can expect:
✅ Training & resources
✅ Networking opportunities
✅ Free lunch
✅ A chance to win a $150 gift card!

Voter registration is especially challenging for young people in NH, as the state does not offer online, DMV, or mail-in registration. But together, the combined efforts of Open Democracy and The Civics Center helped boost 18-year-old registration rates from 9% in December 2023 to 63.7% in November 2024! 🙌 As we approach local elections in NH's cities where voters can make the most impact, be a part of the change!

Let’s empower the next generation of voters. Your voice, your future. Sign up HERE and spread the word! 💪🇺🇸

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Actions for August 18-22

1. RSVP: Exposing NH’s Anti-Climate Dark Money Network

Ben Radcliffe, our summer research fellow, will share key findings from his analysis of 2024 Governor and Executive Council spending. This interactive workshop will include plenty of time for your questions—come curious!

The virtual event will be held on Wednesday August 27th at 7PM. Register HERE.

2. Poll Observer Recruitment 🗳️🔍

With fall municipal elections right around the corner, we’re kicking off poll observer recruitment! Use this form to indicate your interest and let us know your availability for a training session.

As an observer, you’ll help ensure:

• Eligible voters are not unfairly turned away.
• Accessible voting machines are available and working.
• Voter ID rules are applied correctly and fairly.

During the 2025 town elections this past spring, observers like you documented over 100 voters turned away due to HB1569. Your participation this fall is essential to continuing this work.

• Primary Elections (3)
  • Manchester: September 16th
  • Keene: October 7th 
  • Laconia: September 9th 
• General Election
  • Franklin: October 7th
  • Berlin, Claremont, Concord, Dover, Keene, Laconia, Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth, Rochester, and Somersworth: November 4th

Poll Observer Recruitment Form

• Training Sessions
  • September 3 @ 6PM
  • September 24 @ 6PM
  • October 1 @ 6PM
  • October 29 @ 6PM

3. Register for the next meeting of the Open Democracy Book Club! 📚

On October 14th at 7PM, we will be discussing Shadow Network: Media, Money, and the Secret Hub of the Radical Right. Author Anne Nelson will be joining us! Register HERE.

Support your local bookstore and order your copy today:

• Gibson’s Bookstore – 45 South Main St., Concord, NH 03301 | (603) 224-0562 (Special order)

• Main Street BookEnds of Warner – 16 East Main St., Warner, NH 03278 | (603) 456-2700 (Special order)

• Toadstool Bookstores – 12 Depot St., Peterborough, NH 03458 | (603) 924-3543 (Special order)

Actions for August 11-15

1. Contact Secretary Scanlon and urge him to prioritize robust voter education this fall. 📢🗳️

Last year’s rollout of HB 1569 lacked the voter education efforts needed to prevent confusion and disenfranchisement after such a substantial change. Now, with even more restrictive laws in place—particularly impacting our state’s most vulnerable voters—it’s critical that Secretary Scanlon allocate more resources toward clear, widespread, and accessible voter education ahead of the upcoming elections.

Use this customizable template to send an email directly to his office. Please feel free to further personalize!

📧 Email: [email protected]

📞 Phone: 603-271-3242

• (use the above template as a call script, too!)

2. Live in State Senator Dan Innis’s district? Give him a call and tell him you’re disappointed in his plan to push a partisan gerrymandering bill next session. ❌

• State Sen. Innis represents District 7, which includes: Alexandria Andover Boscawen Bradford Bridgewater Bristol Danbury Franklin-Ward 1 Franklin-Ward 2 Franklin-Ward 3 Goshen Grafton Hebron Henniker Hill Hillsborough Newbury Orange Salisbury Sutton Tilton Warner Webster Wilmot
  • State Sen. Innis Phone: (603)-271-2609
    • Email: [email protected]
• Script:

  • Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a resident of [Your Town], New Hampshire.

    I’m calling because I’m deeply concerned about your proposal to introduce a redistricting bill outside the normal census-based cycle. This is a boldfaced call for partisan gerrymandering—and it’s not what New Hampshire voters want or deserve.

    Voters should be choosing their politicians—not the other way around. Manipulating district lines for political gain undermines trust in our elections and damages the integrity of our democracy. It is wrong when Democrats do it, and it is wrong when Republicans do it.

    New Hampshire’s largest group of voters are undeclared. These voters expect fairness, not partisan gamesmanship. And whether someone is a Republican in California or a Democrat in Texas, every voter in this country deserves fair maps.

    I urge you to drop this proposal and instead work to strengthen trust in our elections—not weaken it.

    Thank you for your time.

3. Write a letter to the editor (LTE) condemning partisan gerrymandering. Find submission guidelines HERE. 📝

• Many legislators will read their local papers, so LTEs are a great way to reach them. Best practices for LTEs include keeping them on one topic and relatively short while making a complete and compelling argument. Please do not hesitate to email our Communications Associate, Kaylie, for assistance with editing, submission, or any other questions! 
  • Published examples from ODA team members:
    
    • Steven Borne in The Union Leader
    • Lois Cote in The Manchester Ink Link

4. Poll Observer Recruitment 🗳️🔍

As the fall quickly approaches, we are beginning poll observer recruitment! Click on the form below to indicate your interest, as well as your availability for a training session.

• September 16: Manchester Primary Elections
• October 7: Franklin Municipal Elections (3 wards)
• November 4: City Elections (Berlin, Claremont, Concord, Dover, Keene, Laconia, Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth, Rochester, and Somersworth)
  • 60+ Observers Needed
  • Poll Observer Recruitment Form
    • Poll Worker Recruitment form and training coming!

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Actions for August 4 - 8

1. Live in State Senator Dan Innis’s district? Give him a call and tell him you’re disappointed in his plan to push a partisan gerrymandering bill next session. ❌ 📞

• State Sen. Innis represents District 7, which includes: Alexandria Andover Boscawen Bradford Bridgewater Bristol Danbury Franklin-Ward 1 Franklin-Ward 2 Franklin-Ward 3 Goshen Grafton Hebron Henniker Hill Hillsborough Newbury Orange Salisbury Sutton Tilton Warner Webster Wilmot
  • State Sen. Innis Phone: (603)-271-2609
    • Email: [email protected]
• Script:

  • Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a resident of [Your Town], New Hampshire.

    I’m calling because I’m deeply concerned about your proposal to introduce a redistricting bill outside the normal census-based cycle. This is a boldfaced call for partisan gerrymandering—and it’s not what New Hampshire voters want or deserve.

    Voters should be choosing their politicians—not the other way around. Manipulating district lines for political gain undermines trust in our elections and damages the integrity of our democracy. It is wrong when Democrats do it, and it is wrong when Republicans do it.

    New Hampshire’s largest group of voters are undeclared. These voters expect fairness, not partisan gamesmanship. And whether someone is a Republican in California or a Democrat in Texas, every voter in this country deserves fair maps.

    I urge you to drop this proposal and instead work to strengthen trust in our elections—not weaken it.

    Thank you for your time.

2. Write a letter to the editor (LTE) condemning partisan gerrymandering. Find submission guidelines HERE.

• Many legislators will read their local papers, so LTEs are a great way to reach them. Best practices for LTEs include keeping them on one topic and relatively short while making a complete and compelling argument. Please do not hesitate to email our Communications Associate, Kaylie, for assistance with editing, submission, or any other questions!
  • Published examples from ODA team members:
    
    • Steven Borne in The Union Leader
    • Lois Cote in The Manchester Ink Link

3. Read and share our statement on the 8/1 passage of SB 287, SB 218, and HB 67, as well as the vetoes of HB 613 and SB 213. Harsh absentee restrictions will go into effect on September 30th, 2025. 

*This means that they will not be in effect during the Primary Election on September 16th in Manchester, but will be in effect for the General Election on November 4th. Confusing! 

4. 🧠 Bill Brainstorming: share your bill ideas for the 2026 legislative session on this document!

• Contribute bill ideas, notes on what has/hasn't worked in the past, what you think we should primarily focus on this session, etc!
• Feel free to add a new section if your idea hasn't been touched on yet

5. Mark your calendars for several upcoming events!

• High School Voter Registration Drive Workshop

• • This Wednesday, 8/6, from 7-8PM
  • More community-member than student oriented this time

• Nonviolent Direct Action Training

• • Wednesday, August 20th, 6-9PM
  • 3-hour training in non-violent direct action (NVDA) on August 20, led by Maggie Fogarty, Executive Director of American Friends Service Committee and Arnie Alpert. NVDA is more than protest—it’s a disciplined, grounded approach to confronting injustice through strategic action, moral clarity, and public witness.
  • Email [email protected] to register, space limited

• Countering Christian Nationalism Training

• • Thursday, September 18th, 6-8PM
  • Co-hosted by the Countering Christian Nationalism Coalition, the event will provide attendees with knowledge to understand and address this issue in NH. We hope after learning about how this issue impacts NH that attendees will get involved in undoing the harms of Christian nationalist and related ideologies.
  • Register here

• VoterCon 2025

• • Saturday, October 4th, 10AM-2PM
  • In person at the Concord Community Center
  • partnering with our friends at The Civics Center to deliver a fun, yet informative, day filled with hands-on training, networking opportunities, a complimentary lunch, and engaging learning opportunities!

• Open Democracy Book Club: Shadow Network: Media, Money, and the Secret Hub of the Radical Right with author Anne Nelson

• • October 14th, 7PM

---

Actions for July 28 - August 1

 Quick Action Summary:

1. Contact Governor Ayotte and tell her to VETO HB 613, SB 213, SB 218, & SB 287.

• Governor's Office: 603-271-2121
  • Scroll down for a script!
• NEW EMAIL LINK: Now you can email again if you have previously—get as detailed and personal as possible!
• If you have already called and emailed, send a notarized letter and explain how much time and money it cost you!
  • Office of the Governor
    State House
    107 North Main Street
    Concord, NH 03301

2. Share the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights’ completed absentee voting storybook—delivered in hard copy to the Governor—and help spread these powerful stories far and wide! 📖

3. Create a social media storm by posting these graphics (courtesy of Amplify)! Help educate your social media followers on the attacks on voting rights.

4. Send a thank-you note to Secretary of State Dave Scanlan for upholding the law and protecting the privacy of New Hampshire voters by refusing to hand over the state’s voter rolls to the Department of Justice.

5. RSVP for Open Democracy's annual Granny D Walk and Democracy Festival on Saturday, August 2nd! 

---

 1. Contact the Governor and tell her to VETO the following bills: HB 613, SB 213, SB 218, & SB 287

 Opt-In Accessible Voting is Not Enough

HB 613: towns would post a notice 90–180 days before an election if accessible machines won’t be available; voters with disabilities would need to submit written notice at least 60 days in advance just to access a machine that lets them vote privately and independently.

This unfairly shifts the burden from the state to the individual and creates obstacles no other group of voters faces. If this bill becomes law, voters with disabilities risk losing their fundamental right to vote unless they anticipate their voting needs months in advance. There is also no certainty that they wouldn't be asked to repeat this process for every subsequent election, because the bill does not address it. 

In contrast, HB 67, which also passed both chambers, takes a positive step forward by requiring that accessible voting machines be available in all towns during both state and municipal elections, not just federal. While this is a welcome improvement, its impact will be undermined by the conflicting language in HB 613 if the Governor chooses to sign it. 

 Attacks on Absentee Voting

 SB 213: requires voters who are registering via absentee ballot to provide proof of identity, domicile, age, and citizenship with their application, as well as having it notarized; also requires all absentee voters provide proof of identity when requesting an absentee ballot; adds a line to the request form for a voter to include their state issued ID number, however does not include any guidance on if this is sufficient to prove identity or how voters can meet this requirement if they do not have a state issued ID. 

 SB 218: requires that voters who are registering by absentee ballot (because they attest they are unable to register in person) also provide proof of their identity, age, domicile, and citizenship.

 SB 287: requires voters who are requesting absentee ballots show proof of identity via:

• A copy of the voters’ ID with the absentee application
• A notarized signature on the absentee ballot application
• Presenting an ID in person to the town or city clerk or their designee before being provided an absentee ballot

These bills would disproportionately impact voters with disabilities, low-income voters, elderly voters, those without internet/printer access, or those voting from overseas.

 Call Governor Ayotte: (603) 271-2121

Sample Call Script:

Hi Governor Ayotte, this is [YOUR NAME] and I’m a constituent from [YOUR TOWN]. I’m calling to ask you to please veto SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

Absentee voting in New Hampshire already works well. We don’t need to make it harder for people who truly need to vote this way. Additionally, providing accessible voting machines is required by law—not something towns should have the ability to opt out of.

These bills would create unnecessary barriers for seniors, voters with disabilities, and rural residents. Many of these voters vote absentee because they can’t easily leave home. The above bills don't make our elections more secure. They just make them less accessible.

Please veto SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613 and protect the freedom to vote for all Granite Staters.

Thank you for taking my call.

 Use this customizable email template to contact the Governor. 

---

2. Share the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights’ completed absentee voting storybook!

Thanks to the dedication of volunteers like you, the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights collected dozens of powerful absentee voting stories from across the state and compiled them into a comprehensive storybook—delivered to Governor Ayotte today.

Read their press release HERE—you’ll find the storybook linked on the same page.

We encourage you to share these stories far and wide. If there’s someone you’ve been meaning to loop into the fight against these harmful bills, now is the perfect moment to do it. These real-life voices speak volumes—let’s make sure they’re heard.

 Share the NHCVRs' "Veto SB 287" storybook with friends by email, text, word of mouth, social media—or all of the above!

---

📲 3. Social Media Storm!

Using these graphics (courtesy of Amplify), educate your social media followers! 

Visuals are powerful tools, especially when it comes to breaking down complex policy. These easy-to-share graphics from Amplify explain the harmful impact SB 287 would have on absentee voting in New Hampshire.

✅ Post them to your Instagram stories, Facebook timeline, Bluesky or Twitter/X feed, or anywhere else your community gathers online. See the NHCVRs' toolkit for sample captions!
💬 Add a personal message about why this matters to you, and tag friends and family to help spread the word.
📢 Use the hashtags #NHPolitics, #ProtectTheVote, #StopSB287, and #FreedomToVote to help others find it.

Every share helps us reach more Granite Staters and build momentum against these harmful bills. Let’s make it impossible to ignore.

Share these graphics (courtesy of Amplify) on social media! Help educate your followers on the attacks on voting rights.

---

4. Thank New Hampshire's Secretary of State! 

Secretary Scanlan recently made the right call by refusing to hand over New Hampshire’s voter rolls to the U.S. Department of Justice—protecting the personal data and privacy of every registered voter in the state. This decision upholds the law and reinforces public trust in our elections at a time when that trust is being tested across the country.

Take a moment to thank him for standing up for voter privacy and doing what’s right for New Hampshire voters. A short, sincere note of appreciation can go a long way in showing that his commitment to secure and trustworthy elections is valued by the public. A handwritten note is even better.

📫 Address:
Office of the Secretary of State
107 North Main Street, Room 204
Concord, NH 03301

📧 Email: [email protected]

 Thank Secretary Scanlan for refusing to comply with the DOJ's request for state voter rolls. 

---

5. Walk for campaign finance reform, and celebrate democracy!

🎉 Join us next Saturday for our annual Granny D Walk and Democracy Festival directly after! Don’t forget to check out our sponsored walkers—the competition is heating up, and every step they take supports the fight for a stronger democracy!

Granny D Walk:

: Saturday, August 2nd

: 48 Grove St, Peterborough, NH

: 9AM-12PM

: Click to RSVP

Democracy Festival:

: Saturday, August 2nd

: 48 Grove St, Peterborough, NH

: 12PM

: Click to RSVP

 RSVP for the Granny D Walk and Democracy Festival.

---

Actions for July 21-25

💬 Keep up with Open Democracy by following us on social media 🌐:

• Facebook: *NEW* Open Democracy Action Teams (Group) / Open Democracy NH / Open Democracy Action
• Instagram: opendemocracyaction 
• Bluesky: odaction.bsky.social
• Twitter: OpenDemocracyNH / OpenDemoAction

 Quick Action Summary:

1. Call Governor Ayotte and tell her to VETO HB 613, SB 213, SB 218, & SB 287.

• Governor's Office: 603-271-2121
  • Scroll down for a script!
• If you have already called and emailed using our customizable template, send a notarized letter and explain how much time and money it cost you!
  • Office of the Governor
    State House
    107 North Main Street
    Concord, NH 03301

2. LAST CHANCE: Submit your absentee voting story using this form created by the New Hampshire Campaign For Voting Rights! These will be compiled into a book to present to Governor Ayotte.

• If you have already submitted your own story, submit one for a friend or community member you know relies on accessible absentee voting.

3. Write an LTE (letter to the editor) sounding the alarm on the proposed absentee and accessible voting restrictions in SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

• How to Submit an LTE in NH
  • See published examples from other ODA team members:
    • Lois Cote in The Manchester Ink Link
    • Steven Borne in The Union Leader

4. Send a postcard to Governor Ayotte urging her to VETO SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

5. Attend our Sign Making Party next Friday 7/25 at 9:30am, and RSVP for the Granny D Walk and Democracy Festival on August 2nd! 

 

📞 1. Contact the Governor and tell her to VETO the following bills: HB 613, SB 213, SB 218, & SB 287

 Opt-In Accessible Voting is Not Enough

HB 613: towns would post a notice 90–180 days before an election if accessible machines won’t be available; voters with disabilities would need to submit written notice at least 60 days in advance just to access a machine that lets them vote privately and independently.

This unfairly shifts the burden from the state to the individual and creates obstacles no other group of voters faces. If this bill becomes law, voters with disabilities risk losing their fundamental right to vote unless they anticipate their voting needs months in advance. There is also no certainty that they wouldn't be asked to repeat this process for every subsequent election, because the bill does not address it. 

In contrast, HB 67, which also passed both chambers, takes a positive step forward by requiring that accessible voting machines be available in all towns during both state and municipal elections, not just federal. While this is a welcome improvement, its impact will be undermined by the conflicting language in HB 613 if the Governor chooses to sign it. 

 Attacks on Absentee Voting

 SB 213: requires voters who are registering via absentee ballot to provide proof of identity, domicile, age, and citizenship with their application, as well as having it notarized; also requires all absentee voters provide proof of identity when requesting an absentee ballot; adds a line to the request form for a voter to include their state issued ID number, however does not include any guidance on if this is sufficient to prove identity or how voters can meet this requirement if they do not have a state issued ID. 

 SB 218: requires that voters who are registering by absentee ballot (because they attest they are unable to register in person) also provide proof of their identity, age, domicile, and citizenship.

 SB 287: requires voters who are requesting absentee ballots show proof of identity via:

• A copy of the voters’ ID with the absentee application
• A notarized signature on the absentee ballot application
• Presenting an ID in person to the town or city clerk or their designee before being provided an absentee ballot

These bills would disproportionately impact voters with disabilities, low-income voters, elderly voters, those without internet/printer access, or those voting from overseas.

 Call Governor Ayotte: (603) 271-2121

Sample Call Script:

Hi Governor Ayotte, this is [YOUR NAME] and I’m a constituent from [YOUR TOWN]. I’m calling to ask you to please veto SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

Absentee voting in New Hampshire already works well. We don’t need to make it harder for people who truly need to vote this way. Additionally, providing accessible voting machines is required by law—not something towns should have the ability to opt out of.

These bills would create unnecessary barriers for seniors, voters with disabilities, and rural residents. Many of these voters vote absentee because they can’t easily leave home. The above bills don't make our elections more secure. They just make them less accessible.

Please veto SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613 and protect the freedom to vote for all Granite Staters.

Thank you for taking my call.

 If you have not already, use this customizable email template to contact the Governor. 

 

 2. Share impactful absentee voting stories! 📖

A top priority for the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights (NHCVR) is collecting stories and photos from folks who vote absentee, especially:

• People with disabilities
• Older folks
• Veterans
• Retired members of law enforcement/firefighters
• Undeclared voters
• Snowbirds

They will compile these together into a storybook to present to the Governor highlighting the impact SB 287, in addition to the other restrictive absentee voting bills, would have on real people.

The story you submit does not have to be your own—so get creative! Reach out to members of your community you know rely on accessible absentee voting, and ask them if you can share their story for them! These will be turned into the Governor early next week. 

 Use this form to submit your story! For help with the submission form and crafting your story, please don't hesitate to contact [email protected] or [email protected].

 

📝 3. Sound the alarm—write an LTE.

Letters to the Editor, or “LTEs” are an effective way of communicating a message with a broad audience, drive the public narrative on an issue, and hold lawmakers accountable. Many legislators will read their local papers, so LTEs are a great way to reach them. 

Best practices for LTEs include keeping them on one topic and relatively short while making a complete and compelling argument. You can find submission guidelines here, and helpful talking points from the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights here. As always, it is best to use your personal experience and story in your letter!

This toolkit created by the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights is full of great talking points to reference!

Published examples from ODA team members:

• Steven Borne in The Union Leader
• Lois Cote in The Manchester Ink Link

 Write an LTE sounding the alarm on the proposed absentee voter restrictions in SB 213, SB 218, and SB 287. Feel free to email [email protected] for any assistance

 

4. Join our postcard campaign!

We need to gather as many voices as possible from across the state to make it clear to the Governor that New Hampshire citizens do NOT want voting to be harder. With your help, we have already collected over 400 postcards from around the state! 

Use this link to print your own! 

If you have already sent your own postcard in, share with your friends, post on social media, or leave a few in your local coffee shop or library—every last message matters! 

 Send a postcard to Governor Ayotte telling her to veto SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613. Click here to print your own!

 

5. Attend our Sign-Making Party on Friday, and RSVP for our annual Granny D Walk & Democracy Festival on August 2nd!

Join us for a Sign-Making Party as we gear up for our annual Granny D Walk & Democracy Festival! We’ll provide the supplies—you bring your energy, passion for change, and a few friends! Let’s make signs that speak loud and clear for democracy!

Sign-Making Party:

🗓️: Friday, July 25th

📍: Depot Square, Peterborough, NH

⏰: 9:30AM - 2PM

📩: Click to RSVP

Granny D Walk:

🗓️: Saturday, August 2nd

📍: 48 Grove St, Peterborough, NH

⏰: 9AM-12PM

📩: Click to RSVP

Democracy Festival:

🗓️: Saturday, August 2nd

📍: 48 Grove St, Peterborough, NH

⏰: 12PM

📩: Click to RSVP

 RSVP for the three events listed above!

---

Actions for July 14 - 18

 Quick Action Summary:

1. Call Governor Ayotte and tell her to VETO HB 613, SB 213, SB 218, & SB 287.

• Governor's Office: 603-271-2121
  • Scroll down for a script!
• If you have already called and emailed, send a notarized letter and explain how much time and money it cost you!
  • Office of the Governor
    State House
    107 North Main Street
    Concord, NH 03301

2. Submit your absentee voting story using this form created by the New Hampshire Campaign For Voting Rights! These will be compiled into a book to present to Governor Ayotte.

• If you have already submitted your own story, submit one for a friend or community member you know relies on accessible absentee voting.

3. Make a plan to attend a Good Trouble Lives On event next Thursday, July 17th in honor of civil rights activist and politician John Lewis. 

4. E-Notary Activity: Legislators have defended the notarization requirement in SB 213 and SB 287 on the grounds that online notaries are available for voters who may be disabled and cannot visit one in person. See for yourself just how burdensome this can be: log how much time it took you to find an available online notary, and how much money it would cost.  

• Click here to see a list of e-notaries in NH

 

1. Contact the Governor and tell her to VETO the following bills: HB 613, SB 213, SB 218, & SB 287

 Opt-In Accessible Voting is Not Enough

HB 613: towns would post a notice 90–180 days before an election if accessible machines won’t be available; voters with disabilities would need to submit written notice at least 60 days in advance just to access a machine that lets them vote privately and independently.

This unfairly shifts the burden from the state to the individual and creates obstacles no other group of voters faces. If this bill becomes law, voters with disabilities risk losing their fundamental right to vote unless they anticipate their voting needs months in advance. There is also no certainty that they wouldn't be asked to repeat this process for every subsequent election, because the bill does not address it. 

In contrast, HB 67, which also passed both chambers, takes a positive step forward by requiring that accessible voting machines be available in all towns during both state and municipal elections, not just federal. While this is a welcome improvement, its impact will be undermined by the conflicting language in HB 613 if the Governor chooses to sign it. 

 Attacks on Absentee Voting

 SB 213: requires voters who are registering via absentee ballot to provide proof of identity, domicile, age, and citizenship with their application, as well as having it notarized; also requires all absentee voters provide proof of identity when requesting an absentee ballot; adds a line to the request form for a voter to include their state issued ID number, however does not include any guidance on if this is sufficient to prove identity or how voters can meet this requirement if they do not have a state issued ID. 

 SB 218: requires that voters who are registering by absentee ballot (because they attest they are unable to register in person) also provide proof of their identity, age, domicile, and citizenship.

 SB 287: requires voters who are requesting absentee ballots show proof of identity via:

• A copy of the voters’ ID with the absentee application
• A notarized signature on the absentee ballot application
• Presenting an ID in person to the town or city clerk or their designee before being provided an absentee ballot

These bills would disproportionately impact voters with disabilities, low-income voters, elderly voters, those without internet/printer access, or those voting from overseas.

 Call Governor Ayotte: (603) 271-2121

Sample Call Script:

Hi Governor Ayotte, this is [YOUR NAME] and I’m a constituent from [YOUR TOWN]. I’m calling to ask you to please veto SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

Absentee voting in New Hampshire already works well. We don’t need to make it harder for people who truly need to vote this way. Additionally, providing accessible voting machines is required by law—not something towns should have the ability to opt out of.

These bills would create unnecessary barriers for seniors, voters with disabilities, and rural residents. Many of these voters vote absentee because they can’t easily leave home. The above bills don't make our elections more secure. They just make them less accessible.

Please veto SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613 and protect the freedom to vote for all Granite Staters.

Thank you for taking my call.

 If you have not already, use this customizable email template to contact the Governor. 

 

 2. Share impactful absentee voting stories! 📖

A top priority for the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights (NHCVR) is collecting stories and photos from folks who vote absentee, especially:

• People with disabilities
• Older folks
• Veterans
• Retired members of law enforcement/firefighters
• Undeclared voters
• Snowbirds

They will compile these together into a storybook to present to the Governor highlighting the impact SB 287, in addition to the other restrictive absentee voting bills, would have on real people.

The story you submit does not have to be your own—so get creative! Reach out to members of your community you know rely on accessible absentee voting, and ask them if you can share their story for them! 

 Use this form to submit your story! For help with the submission form and crafting your story, please don't hesitate to contact [email protected] or [email protected].

 

3. Attend a Good Trouble Lives on Event!

July 17th, 2025 marks five years since the passing of renowned civil rights activist and politician John Lewis. He coined the term "good trouble" in reference to the action of coming together to take peaceful, non-violent action to challenge injustice and create meaningful change. This national day of action is a response to recent attacks on civil and human rights throughout the country. Together, we’ll remind politicians that in America, the power lies with the people.

⬇️ Events around the state (click to RSVP) 🗓️

Concord: 2-6pm, NH State House

Conway: 4-6pm

Derry: 4-6pm, Easy Broadway & Crystal Avenue

Dover: 4:30-6pm, 1 Washington St

Franconia: 4-5:30pm, Sidewalks outside of the Franconia Post Office, 308 Main St

Jaffrey: 3-5pm, 14 Peterborough St (corner of Peterborough St and Turnpike Rd)

Nashua: 5-8pm, Soldiers & Sailors Monument

Orford: 4:30-6pm, Samuel Morey Memorial Bridge

Peterborough: 5-6pm, Routes 202 & 101 intersection near 100 Grove St

Plymouth: 6-8pm

Portsmouth: 5-7pm, Market Square

Upper Valley: 4:30-6:30pm, White River Jct, VT, Bridge St & Maple St - Veterans Park

Actions for July 7 - July 11

1. Contact Governor Ayotte using this pre-drafted, customizable email template to tell her to VETO SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.  

2. Sign up to attend a Good Trouble Lives On event being held around the country on July 17.  Open Democracy is sponsoring one in Dover at 5pm, there are also events in Concord, Nashua, Portsmouth & Lebanon.  See the full list HERE.  Click on the dots on the map for details.  Promote the events!

3. Special Action!  Read a speech. Granny D's remarks inside the Capitol Rotunda.

Friends, the First Amendment to the Constitution says that Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

We are peaceably assembled here, in this our hall, to freely speak, to petition our government.  Our grievance is that we no longer have proper representation.  Our elected leaders are consumed by the need to raise election funds from special interests, and they no longer are able to represent the needs of the people of our ravaged Earth.

We must declare our independence from the corrupting bonds of big money in our election campaigns by reforming our campaign finance system.  We must alter our government. As a people, we know how to declare our independence and authorize alterations of our government.  Here is how we did so in Congress, July 4, 1776:

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with unalienable Rights, that among those are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. –That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed…”

While she was reading from the Declaration of Independence, Ms. Haddock was arrested and manacled by Capitol Police.  Tourists, who had been applauding, seemed shocked.  She was taken to jail with 29 supporters.

Please read her statement to the judge and his response HERE.

Actions for June 30th - July 4th

 Quick Action Summary:

1. Contact Governor Ayotte using this pre-drafted, customizable email template to tell her to VETO SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

2. URGENT! Submit your absentee voting story using this form created by the New Hampshire Campaign For Voting Rights, and share it with your friends! These will be compiled into a book to present to Governor Ayotte.

3. Write an LTE (letter to the editor) sounding the alarm on the proposed absentee and accessible voting restrictions in SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

     - How to Submit an LTE in NH

3. Send a postcard to Governor Ayotte urging her to VETO SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

1. Email and call the Governor!

 Opt-In Accessible Voting is Not Enough

Yesterday, both chambers of the legislature voted to pass HB 613. Under this bill:

• Towns would post a notice 90–180 days before an election if accessible machines won’t be available.

• Voters with disabilities would need to submit written notice at least 60 days in advance just to access a machine that lets them vote privately and independently.

This unfairly shifts the burden from the state to the individual and creates obstacles no other group of voters faces. If this bill becomes law, voters with disabilities risk losing their fundamental right to vote unless they anticipate their voting needs months in advance.

In contrast, HB 67, which also passed on yesterday, takes a positive step forward by requiring that accessible voting machines be available in all towns during both state and municipal elections, not just federal. While this is a welcome improvement, its impact will be undermined by the conflicting language in HB 613 if the Governor chooses to sign it. 

 Attacks on Absentee Voting

Each Committee of Conference Report for the restrictive absentee voting bills was also adopted by the House and Senate yesterday. 

 SB 213:

• This bill requires voters who are registering via absentee ballot to provide proof of identity, domicile, age, and citizenship with their application, as well as having it notarized.  
• It also requires all absentee voters provide proof of identity when requesting an absentee ballot. This bill adds a line to the request form for a voter to include their state issued ID number, however does not include any guidance on if this is sufficient to prove identity or how voters can meet this requirement if they do not have a state issued ID. 

 SB 218:

• This bill requires that voters who are registering by absentee ballot (because they attest they are unable to register in person) also provide proof of their identity, age, domicile, and citizenship.

 SB 287:

Requires voters who are requesting absentee ballots show proof of identity via:

• A copy of the voters’ ID with the absentee application
• A notarized signature on the absentee ballot application
• Presenting an ID in person to the town or city clerk or their designee before being provided an absentee ballot

All 3 of these bills would:

• Undermine the purpose of absentee voting and risk disenfranchising elderly, low-income, and disabled voters. 
• Disproportionately impact voters with disabilities, those without internet/printer access, or those voting from overseas.

 Please use this customizable email template to urge Governor Ayotte to VETO SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

 Don't forget to call the Governor: (603) 271-2121

• Click here for a script!

 2. URGENT: Share your absentee voting story! 💬 

A top priority for the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights (NHCVR) is collecting stories and photos from folks who vote absentee, especially:

• People with disabilities
• Older folks
• Veterans
• Retired members of law enforcement/firefighters
• Undeclared voters
• Snowbirds

They will compile these together into a storybook to present to the Governor highlighting the impact SB287, in addition to the other restrictive absentee voting bills, would have on real people.

 Use this form to submit your story! For help with the submission form and crafting your story, please don't hesitate to contact [email protected] or [email protected].

3. Sound the alarm—write an LTE.

Letters to the Editor, or “LTEs” are an effective way of communicating a message with a broad audience, drive the public narrative on an issue, and hold lawmakers accountable. Many legislators will read their local papers, so LTEs are a great way to reach them. 

Best practices for LTEs include keeping them on one topic and relatively short while making a complete and compelling argument. You can find submission guidelines here. As always, it is best to use your personal experience and story in your letter!

This toolkit created by the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights is full of great talking points to reference!

Published examples from ODA team members:

• Steven Borne in The Union Leader
• Lois Cote in The Manchester Ink Link

 Write an LTE sounding the alarm on the proposed absentee voter restrictions in SB 213, SB 218, and SB 287. Feel free to email [email protected] for any assistance

4. Send a postcard to the Governor urging her to VETO SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

Join our postcard campaign by using this link to print your own. We need to gather as many voices as possible from across the state to make it clear to the Governor that New Hampshire citizens do NOT want voting to be harder.

 Send a postcard to Governor Ayotte telling her to veto SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613. Click here to print your own!

Actions for June 23-27

 Quick Action Summary:

1. Contact your representatives using this pre-drafted, customizable email template to tell them to REJECT the recommendation to pass SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

2. Join us in protest at the State House ahead of the vote at 9AM on Thursday, June 26th!

3. Submit your absentee voting story using this form created by the New Hampshire Campaign For Voting Rights, and share it with your friends!

4. Write an LTE (letter to the editor) sounding the alarm on the proposed absentee voter restrictions in SB 213, SB 218, and SB 287.

     - How to Submit an LTE in NH

5. Send a postcard to Governor Ayotte urging her to VETO SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

1. Restrictions on Absentee and Accessible Voting

 Opt-In Accessible Voting is Not Enough

This past Monday, the House concurred with the Senate's amended version of HB 613, relative to use of accessible voting systems. Under this bill:

• Towns would post a notice 90–180 days before an election if accessible machines won’t be available.

• Voters with disabilities would need to submit written notice at least 60 days in advance just to access a machine that lets them vote privately and independently.

This unfairly shifts the burden from the state to the individual and creates obstacles no other group of voters faces. If this bill becomes law, voters with disabilities risk losing their fundamental right to vote unless they anticipate their voting needs months in advance.

 Attacks on Absentee Voting

We have an additional absentee voter restriction bill to tackle this week—SB 213. During Committee of Conference, the electioneering bill was amended to include an additional section with new requirements for absentee voter applicants, despite Sen. Perkins Kwoka noting that language has already been passed that is even more restrictive (SB 287).

 SB 213:

• Requires voters who are registering via absentee ballot to provide proof of identity, domicile, age, and citizenship with their application, as well as having it notarized.  
• It also requires all absentee voters provide proof of identity when requesting an absentee ballot. This bill adds a line to the request form for a voter to include their state issued ID number, however does not include any guidance on if this is sufficient to prove identity or how voters can meet this requirement if they do not have a state issued ID. 

 SB 218:

• Requires voters who are registering via absentee ballot to provide proof of identity, domicile, age, and citizenship with their application
• Replaces current affidavits (already subject to perjury penalties) with burdensome scanning and mailing requirements.

 SB 287:

• Requires absentee voter applicants to either submit photo ID in person, include a photocopy, or have their application notarized.

All 3 of these bills would:

• Undermine the purpose of absentee voting and risk disenfranchising elderly, low-income, and disabled voters. 
• Disproportionately impact voters with disabilities, those without internet/printer access, or those voting from overseas.

• Create serious barriers for voters without access to printers, notaries, or who cannot travel in person.

 Please use this customizable email template to tell your representatives to REJECT the recommendation to pass SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613 ahead of the floor vote on 6/26.

2. SILENT PROTEST OF SHAME!

Now that Committees of Conferences are over and bills are signed off, they must be voted on by the full House and Senate. Join us outside of the State House from 9-10AM on Thursday, June 26th ahead of the vote for a visibility/silent protest.

 Mark your calendar for 9AM on June 26th to join us in protest at the State House. Bring your own sign, or borrow one of ours!

3.  Share your absentee voting story! 

A top priority for the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights (NHCVR) is collecting stories and photos from folks who vote absentee, especially:

• People with disabilities
• Older folks
• Veterans
• Retired members of law enforcement/firefighters
• Undeclared voters
• Snowbirds

They will compile these together into a storybook to present to the Governor highlighting the impact SB287, in addition to the other restrictive absentee voting bills, would have on real people.

 Use this form to submit your story! For help with submission and crafting your story, contact [email protected]

4. Sound the alarm—write an LTE.

Letters to the Editor, or “LTEs” are an effective way of communicating a message with a broad audience, drive the public narrative on an issue, and hold lawmakers accountable. Many legislators will read their local papers, so LTEs are a great way to reach them. 

Best practices for LTEs include keeping them on one topic and relatively short while making a complete and compelling argument. You can find submission guidelines here. As always, it is best to use your personal experience and story in your letter!

 Write an LTE sounding the alarm on the proposed absentee voter restrictions in SB 213, SB 218, and SB 287. 

5. Send a postcard to the Governor urging her to VETO SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613.

We have collected over 300 postcards this past week! Join our postcard campaign by using this link to print your own. We need to gather as many voices as possible from across the state to make it clear to the Governor that New Hampshire citizens do NOT want voting to be harder.

 Send a postcard to Governor Ayotte telling her to veto SB 213, SB 218, SB 287, and HB 613 if they come to her desk. Click here to print your own!

Actions for June 16-20 

 Quick Action Summary:

1. Contact committee members for SB 287, SB 218, and HB 613 using this pre-drafted, customizable email template to tell them to non-concur.

2. Write an LTE (letter to the editor) sounding the alarm on the proposed absentee voter restrictions in SB 287 and SB 218. 

- How to Submit an LTE in NH

3. Collect stories about absentee and accessible voting and/or send a postcard to Governor Ayotte with your own.

4. Mark your calendar! Join us in protest at the State House ahead of the vote at 9AM on June 26th 

1. Restrictions on Absentee and Accessible Voting

 Opt-In Accessible Voting is Not Enough

You may remember HB 67, a bill to ensure consistent use of accessible voting systems in all elections, which passed both chambers. But instead of implementing this commonsense reform that would have brought us in line with federal law, the Senate gutted a completely unrelated bill—HB 613—and replaced it with burdensome requirements for voters with disabilities.

Under this new version of HB 613:

• Towns would post a notice 90–180 days before an election if accessible machines won’t be available.

• Voters with disabilities would need to submit written notice at least 60 days in advance just to access a machine that lets them vote privately and independently.

This unfairly shifts the burden from the state to the individual and creates obstacles no other group of voters faces. If this bill becomes law, voters with disabilities risk losing their fundamental right to vote unless they anticipate their voting needs months in advance.

 Attacks on Absentee Voting

 SB 287:

• Requires voters to submit photo ID in person, include a photocopy, or have their application notarized.

• Creates serious barriers for voters without access to printers, notaries, or who cannot travel in person.

• Undermines the purpose of absentee voting and risks disenfranchising elderly, low-income, and disabled voters.

 SB 218:

• Requires absentee voter registration applicants to submit multiple documents proving identity, citizenship, age, and domicile.

• Replaces current affidavits (already subject to perjury penalties) with burdensome scanning and mailing requirements.

• Disproportionately impacts voters with disabilities, those without internet/printer access, or those voting from overseas.

 Please use this customizable email template to tell the representatives serving on the Committee of Conference to non-concur on HB 613, SB 287 and SB 218.

2. Sound the alarm: Write an LTE

In last weeks action alert email, we encouraged you to reach out to the two representatives who crossed party lines to vote for more restrictions on absentee voting. We received a reply from one, who also proudly published her opinion in Seacoast online. She states that SB 287 and SB 218 are "neither extraordinary nor discriminatory"— a sentiment disconnected from the realities many Granite Staters face. Help us educate the broader public on what harms these bills will truly inflict by writing an LTE.

Letters to the Editor, or “LTEs” are an effective way of communicating a message with a broad audience, drive the public narrative on an issue, and hold lawmakers accountable. Many legislators will read their local papers, so LTEs are a great way to reach them. 

Best practices for LTEs include keeping them on one topic and relatively short while making a complete and compelling argument. You can find submission guidelines here. As always, it is best to use your personal experience and story in your letter!

 Write an LTE sounding the alarm on the proposed absentee voter restrictions in SB 287 and SB 218. 

3. Story Collection & Postcards: Absentee Voting

A top priority for the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights (NHCVR) is collecting stories and photos from folks who vote absentee, especially:

• People with disabilities
• Older folks
• Veterans
• Retired members of law enforcement/firefighters
• Undeclared voters
• Snowbirds

They will compile these together into a storybook to present to the Governor highlighting the impact SB287 would have on real people.

 Email stories and photos to [email protected]

We are also launching a postcard campaign urging Governor Ayotte to protect absentee and accessible voting. Want a printable version? Email [email protected].

 Send a postcard to Governor Ayotte telling her to veto SB 287, SB 218, and HB 613 if they come to her desk.

4. Save the Date: Silent Protest of SHAME

After Committees of Conferences wrap up and bills are signed off, they must be voted on by the full House and Senate. Join us outside of the State House from 9-10AM on Monday, June 26th ahead of the vote for a visibility/silent protest.

 Mark your calendar for 9AM on June 26th to join us in protest at the State House.

Actions for June 9-13

🚨 Quick Action Summary:

1. Contact your state rep and urge them to non-concur with HB 613, which undermines accessible voting for people with disabilities.

2. Contact your state senator and urge them to non-concur with SB 287 and SB 218, which impose unfair restrictions on absentee voting.

3. Contact Rep. Dale Girard(Sull. 6) and Rep. Jennifer Mandelbaum(Rock. 21),who voted against party lines for more voter restriction yesterday and tell them we need increased voter access, not more blockades. 

🔒 Opt-In Accessible Voting is Not Enough

You may remember HB 67, a bill to ensure consistent use of accessible voting systems in all elections, which passed both chambers. But instead of implementing this commonsense reform that would have brought us in line with federal law, the Senate gutted a completely unrelated bill—HB 613—and replaced it with burdensome requirements for voters with disabilities.

Under this new version of HB 613:

• Towns would post a notice 90–180 days before an election if accessible machines won’t be available.

• Voters with disabilities would need to submit written notice at least 60 days in advance just to access a machine that lets them vote privately and independently.

This unfairly shifts the burden from the state to the individual and creates obstacles no other group of voters faces. If this bill becomes law, voters with disabilities risk losing their fundamental right to vote unless they anticipate their voting needs months in advance.

➡️ Please use this customizable email template to contact your state rep and urge them to non-concur with HB 613, which undermines accessible voting for people with disabilities.

📬 Attacks on Absentee Voting

Two bills that would significantly restrict absentee voting were passed by the House this week:

❌ SB 287:

• Requires voters to submit photo ID in person, include a photocopy, or have their application notarized.

• Creates serious barriers for voters without access to printers, notaries, or who cannot travel in person.

• Undermines the purpose of absentee voting and risks disenfranchising elderly, low-income, and disabled voters.

❌ SB 218:

• Requires absentee voter registration applicants to submit multiple documents proving identity, citizenship, age, and domicile.

• Replaces current affidavits (already subject to perjury penalties) with burdensome scanning and mailing requirements.

• Disproportionately impacts voters with disabilities, those without internet/printer access, or those voting from overseas.

➡️ Please use this customizable email template to contact your state Senator and ask them to non-concur on SB 287 and SB 218.   

➡️ While no Republicans crossed party lines to vote against the bills, 2 Democrats voted in their favor. These are Rep. Dale Girard (Sull. 6) and Rep. Jennifer Mandelbaum (Rock. 21). We encourage you to contact them in addition to your own representative to tell them that NH doesn't need more voter restriction—we are already ranked as the 4th most restrictive state in the nation on the 2024 Cost of Voting Index. 

Actions for June 2-6

Action 1 - Email your state representative and urge them to oppose SB 287 and SB 213 ahead of the floor vote this Thursday, June 5th. 

In the wake of HB 1569, which was passed last year and has already worked to disenfranchise eligible voters during town elections, some legislators want to go even further. Two bills scheduled for discussion during the executive session, SB 287 and SB 218, introduce highly restrictive measures for voters seeking to cast absentee ballots in New Hampshire. These proposed laws would create unnecessary and burdensome hurdles that disproportionately affect the state's most vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, voters with disabilities, students, low-income individuals, and those serving in the military. We ask that you contact your state representative prior to Thursday and urge them to oppose these extreme bills.

SB 287 requires that voters who apply for an absentee ballot show photo ID in person before election day, include a copy of their photo ID with their application, or submit their application with a notarized signature, adding significant financial and logistical barriers. During the House Election Law Committees Executive Session on 5/27, the signature matching verification requirement was removed, but the bill was also amended to apply to everyone requesting an absentee ballot. SB 287 also requires notarization and photocopies of sensitive documents, which pose serious challenges for those without easy access to a notary, copy machine, or printer. If voters can’t meet these demands, they must either make an in-person visit to the town clerk - defeating the purpose of absentee voting.

SB 218 requires voters who are registering by absentee ballot provide proof of identity, U.S. citizenship, age, and domicile. Voters currently attest to their eligibility when they register via a sworn affidavit, punishable by penalty of perjury. Adding additional requirements to scan, print, and send documents can disenfranchise eligible voters – especially those with disabilities who are registering absentee because they are unable to do so in person.

Voting in New Hampshire has been found to be safe and secure time and again. In 2022, the Secretary of State commissioned Special Committee on Voter Confidence found no evidence of widespread voter fraud. That same year, New Hampshire was also placed last on the Cost of Voting Index, which measures how difficult it is for eligible voters to cast a ballot based on the availability of factors such as online registration, early voting, voter ID laws, etc. Based on this, it is clear that the legislature is currently heading in the wrong direction when it comes to diminishing voting rights and tightening election security. 

Click here to use our pre-drafted email template to voice your concerns to your state representative prior to Thursday, June 5th. We encourage you to personalize your message, as unique emails with personal stories often have a greater impact!

Action 2 - Show Up and Speak Out: Join Us for a Sign-Holding and Flyering Event Before Thursday’s House Session!

Help us make a visible statement against SB 287 and SB 218! Ahead of the House vote on Thursday, June 5, we’re organizing a sign-holding and flyering event outside the State House to show lawmakers that Granite Staters reject these unnecessary and discriminatory barriers to absentee voting.

By joining us, you’ll help amplify the voices of those most impacted—seniors, people with disabilities, students, low-income voters, and military members—and send a clear message that New Hampshire voters deserve access to the polls, not obstacles.

📍 Where: Outside the NH State House
🕘 When: Morning of Thursday, June 5th at 9AM
📣 What to Bring: Yourself, friends, and your energy! We’ll provide signs and flyers—or bring your own.

Your presence makes a difference. Together, we can push back against these extreme bills and protect the right to vote in New Hampshire.

Email [email protected] with any questions or concerns!

Action 3 - Call Governor Ayotte about HB 67 - relative to agreements with the secretary of state for the use of accessible voting systems.

This bill directs cities and towns to enable access to voting for individuals with disabilities during elections.  It has been passed with amendment by both the House and Senate and will move to Committee of Conference.  Please ask Governor Ayotte to sign this bill when it reaches her desk.  603-271-2121.

Bonus Action - Share Open Democracy's NH Gives profile with your friends and contacts and on Social media!

https://www.nhgives.org/organizations/open-democracy

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Actions for May 26-30

Action 1 - Legislative Actions

In the wake of HB 1569, which was passed last year and has already worked to disenfranchise eligible voters during town elections, some legislators want to go even further. Two bills scheduled for discussion during the 5/27 executive session, SB 287 and SB 213, introduce highly restrictive measures for voters seeking to cast absentee ballots in New Hampshire. These proposed laws would create unnecessary and burdensome hurdles that disproportionately affect the state's most vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, voters with disabilities, students, low-income individuals, and those serving in the military. We ask that you contact members of the House Election Law Committee prior to Tuesday and urge them to oppose these extreme bills.

SB 287 requires that voters show photo ID before election day, or submit their application with a notarized signature if they wish for their ballot be mailed to a different address other than that appearing on the official checklist, adding significant financial and logistical barriers. It creates two classes of voters: verified and unverified, with little substantive justification for doing so. 

SB 213 requires voters provide proof of identity, U.S. citizenship, age, and domicile again when applying for an absentee ballot. It also requires a witness affirmation signed by a Notary Public or Justice of the Peace to confirm the voter's identity, imposing undue burdens that are likely to suppress turnout.

Both bills rely on signature matching as a fallback if notarization or required documents aren’t submitted. This practice was ruled unconstitutional in Saucedo v. Gardner (2018). The Court reasoned that election moderators do not have sufficient training in handwriting analysis to be able to accurately reject an absentee ballot on that basis. Additionally, those with disabilities are far more likely to have fluctuating handwriting.

Both bills also require notarization and photocopies of sensitive documents, which pose serious challenges for those without easy access to a notary, copy machine, or printer. If voters can’t meet these demands, they must either make an in-person visit to the town clerk - defeating the purpose of absentee voting - or risk rejection based on illegal signature comparisons.

Click here to use our pre-drafted email template to voice your concerns to the House Election Law Committee. We encourage you to personalize your message, as unique emails have a greater impact!

Actions for May 19-23

Action 1 - Attend the House Election Law Committee tour of State Archives Building

On Tuesday May 20 at 10am, the House Election Law Committee will be touring the New Hampshire State Archives, at 9 Ratification Way, Concord, NH 03301. This is open to the public, and we encourage you to attend - the State Archives are a pretty neat place!

Action 2 - HB 67 is going to the Governor's desk! Please thank your senator

HB 67 will ensure that accessible voting systems are used consistently across all elections, guaranteeing that disabled voters can cast their ballots with dignity and in compliance with federal law. An amendment was added on the floor to close the gap between the pilot program and the new law’s effective date - Section 2 will take effect on June 29, 2025, while the remainder of the act will become effective on December 31, 2025. 

Action 3 - Urge your senator to support HB 464's Amendment 2025-2184s 

The amendment largely addresses Open Democracy's previous concerns. Where the original proposed amendment allowed for the voter registration database to link with state vital records, Department of Safety, and SSA, section 5 lines 19-20 read that "access to such data shall not relieve the responsibility to provide appropriate proof of voter qualifications," seemingly making an otherwise well-intentioned idea redundant. The new language that rectifies this in section 4 lines 10-13 reads: "If the election official receiving the application confirms through the centralized voter registration database required by RSA 654:45 or other official records that the applicant was previously or is currently registered to vote in New Hampshire, the applicant shall prove identity and domicile, but shall not be required to prove his or her age or citizenship." The Senate will vote on Thursday, May 22nd - here is the calendar.

*HERE is the link to find your state senator, as well as a document with email templates for both HB 67 and HB 464 actions - feel free to personalize!*

Bonus Actions - Story Collection for the NH Campaign for Voting Rights 

1. Following the recent round of town elections, the campaign is specifically looking to hear from:

• Eligible voters who were unable to register because they couldn’t provide documentary proof of citizenship, age, domicile, or identity - such as a birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, utility bill, lease, or other required documents.
• Registered voters who were turned away from checking in on Election Day because they didn’t have an acceptable photo ID.

2. Please share the surveys below with your circles! NHCVR has also provided a sample outreach message.

• Election Official Experience Survey – Election workers can provide crucial insights into how these changes played out in practice
• Voter Election Day Experience Survey – Encourage voters who faced challenges or barriers to report their experiences.

3. Watch the webinar:  How to Stop a Backsliding Democracy in its Tracks (and Engineer a Reverse Course)

Democracy is under siege at home and abroad—but history shows that authoritarianism can be stopped, and democracy can be rebuilt through courageous, strategic movements and the actions of everyday people. In this webinar, AFT and ASI President Randi Weingarten will moderate a discussion with experts and strategists of resistance and people-powered movements, exploring how we turn the tide through education, organized labor, and strategic coalition-building.

Please join American Federation of Teachers for this important discussion May 20, 8:00 p.m. EDT

Register and invite your friends and colleagues.

Actions for May 12-16

Action 1 - Legislative Actions

Contact your Senators and urge them to oppose HB 217, which is scheduled for a floor vote on Thursday, 5/15. Here is the link to email your Senator, with pre-drafted language - feel free to personalize it further! HB 217 received a recommendation of ITL by the Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs Committee with a 4-1 vote. This bill requires absentee ballot voters to submit information demonstrating citizenship, age, domicile, and identity in order to qualify to vote. This would place an undue burden on those who already struggle the most to cast their vote, is unwarranted given the minimal levels of voter fraud, and would ultimately decrease voter turnout. 

HB 67 is also scheduled for a Senate floor vote on 5/15. It received an overwhelmingly positive reception at its public hearing on Tuesday, and was recommended as OTP-A by the Senate Election Law Committee in a unanimous 4-0 vote. HB 67 offers a straightforward solution to ensure accessible voting systems are used consistently across all elections, guaranteeing that disabled voters can cast their ballots with dignity and in compliance with federal law. HB 67 is likely to pass, and we encourage you to thank the Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs Committee for their support.

We also want to make sure to extend a thank you to the Senate, which voted yesterday to kill HB 514, which would have enabled individuals to sue for violations of election law. Here is the link to email your Senator, with pre-drafted language - again, feel free to make it your own! The authority to adjudicate such matters appropriately lay with the Attorney General, who after receiving reports from individuals, ultimately decides which cases are suitable to pursue. HB 514 went too far and was unnecessary, given New Hampshire’s strong record of secure and trustworthy elections. It could have placed an undue burden on election workers who were simply trying to do their jobs. 

Action 2 - Remembering Justice Souter: Share PBS NewsHour Citizens United clip

Justice David H. Souter was a U.S. Supreme Court Justice from 1990 to 2009, known for his thoughtful, independent approach to the law and his deep respect for constitutional principles. A native of Weare, Souter began his legal career in the Granite State, serving as New Hampshire’s Attorney General, then as a justice on the state’s Supreme Court and later on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. Appointed to the Supreme Court by President George H.W. Bush, Souter was expected to be a conservative voice but often sided with the Court’s liberal wing on key issues, especially in defense of civil liberties and judicial restraint. After retiring, he returned to New Hampshire and remained engaged in public service and civic education.

Just before retiring in 2009, Souter reportedly wrote a blistering dissent in Citizens United v. FEC, accusing Chief Justice John Roberts of manipulating the Court’s procedures to engineer a sweeping decision that would expand corporate influence in elections. According to journalist Jeffrey Toobin, Souter’s draft not only challenged the legal reasoning but exposed internal misconduct, prompting Roberts to order a rare “reargument” on the very day Souter retired, effectively burying the dissent. The move cleared the way for the 2010 decision that struck down key campaign finance limits, opening the floodgates for unlimited corporate and dark money in politics. Souter’s silenced warning foreshadowed the corrosive impact Citizens United would have on democratic accountability and electoral integrity.

Justice Souter will be remembered not only for his intellect and integrity, but also for his humility, his lifelong dedication to public service, and his unwavering belief in the power of democracy guided by principle and informed citizens.

Action 3 - Sign the petition to keep money out of politics and share with 10 friends

We believe that our democracy should represent people - not corporations, billionaires, or special interests. Today, the growing influence of money in politics undermines our democratic ideals and gives undue power to wealthy donors and Super PACs, drowning out the voices of everyday Americans. The 2010 Citizens United v. FEC Supreme Court decision opened the floodgates for unlimited political spending, leading to unprecedented levels of campaign contributions from a small, ultra-rich minority. This has eroded public trust in government, skewed policy priorities, and made our political system more beholden to money than to the will of the people.

We urge lawmakers at all levels, local, state, and federal, to take immediate action to get big money out of politics and put voters back at the center of our democracy.

Click to sign petition

Actions for May 5-9

Action 1 - Sign in on Bills (Link to Tracker)

This Tuesday, there are 4 bills we urge you to take action on being heard before the Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs Committee.

First, we encourage you to oppose the non-germane amendment being proposed for HB 464, prohibiting certain candidates for political office from participating in counting ballots. While the bill on its face seeks to improve election security, the amendment is not ready for prime time. It allows for the voter registration database to link with vital state records (birth, death, marriage, and divorce documents), the Department of Safety, and the Social Security Administration - but in section 5 line 19, conversely states that, "access to such data shall not relieve the responsibility to provide appropriate proof of voter qualifications". This seems to make an otherwise good idea redundant, and could use some reconsideration. It also decreases transparency by reducing public access to identifying information for low-dollar contributors, which could potentially obscure the origins of smaller-scale, but cumulatively significant, fundraising. 

Next, we urge you to oppose HB 367, which seeks to change the method for adopting partisan town elections to be the same as rescinding partisan town elections. This opens the door to more partisan local elections at a time when our communities desperately need unity, not division. By making it easier for towns to adopt partisan ballot systems, this bill risks importing the toxic polarization of national politics into our school boards, select boards, and town councils - spaces that should prioritize collaboration over party allegiance. Local government works best when it’s focused on solving real problems, not scoring political points. We urge voters and lawmakers to oppose HB 367 and keep our local elections focused on people, not parties.

We encourage you to support HB 67, relative to agreements with the secretary of state for the use of accessible voting systems. This is an essential step toward ensuring that every eligible voter, regardless of physical ability, can participate fully in our democratic process. This legislation transitions the state's accessible voting systems from a temporary pilot program to a permanent requirement, mandating that all cities, towns, and school districts using official ballots provide at least one accessible voting system at each polling place. By formalizing agreements between municipalities and the Secretary of State, HB 67 ensures consistent access to voting for individuals with disabilities. Without this bill, the pilot program would expire, potentially leaving municipalities to bear the full cost of acquiring accessible voting equipment independently. HB 67 promotes inclusivity, upholds the rights of voters with disabilities, and reinforces New Hampshire's commitment to fair and accessible elections for all citizens.

Finally, we urge you to support HB 546, relative to financial disclosures and the public reporting of those disclosures by the secretary of state. This would enhance transparency and accountability by mandating that legislators disclose any contributions of $1,000 or more from industries or political action committees within 30 days. Additionally, it requires candidates who receive over $1,000 in campaign funds to submit monthly receipts to the Secretary of State, who will then provide summaries to the Legislative Ethics Committee. HB 546 ensures timely and detailed reporting of significant financial contributions, enabling voters to make informed decisions and fostering trust in our democratic institutions.

Action 2 - Call your members of Congress and tell them you want oversight for the Department of Justice!

Donald Trump’s appointees at the Department of Justice have removed all of the senior civil servants working as managers in the department’s voting section and directed attorneys to dismiss all active cases. Tamar Hagler, the chief of the voting section, which is responsible for enforcing federal laws designed to prevent voter discrimination, and five top career managers were all reassigned last week to the complaint adjudication office, a little-known part of the department that handles employee complaints, according to people familiar with the matter. Here is an article from The Guardian with more details to share.

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen: Call (202) 224-2841 / 603-647-7500

Sen. Maggie Hassan: Call (202) 224-3324 / (603) 622-2204

Chris Pappas
Office addresses and phone numbers
Email Form

Maggie Goodlander
Office addresses and phone numbers
Email Form

Action 3 - Town Elections on May 13th: Make sure you're prepared!

The following towns will hold local elections next Tuesday, May 13th:

• Chester
• Hanover
• Hebron
• New Castle
• Newport
• Peterborough

If you are registering to vote you MUST…

• Provide proof of citizenship in the form of a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers.
• Provide proof of identity and age using a driver’s license or government-issued photo ID
• Provide proof of your NH residence or domicile, which can be done by presenting a photo ID with current NH address listed, rental agreement or utility bill listing current NH address, or a note signed by a New Hampshire school official

IMPORTANT: If your birth certificate doesn’t match your name, you must also bring a marriage certificate, adoption paperwork or change of name documents!

If you are unsure of your voter registration status, you may check it HERE.  Enter the required information, click search and then scroll down to see your information. If it's incorrect, contact your Town Clerk immediately.

Actions for April 28 - May 2

Action 1 - Sign in on Bills (Link to Tracker)

This week, we encourage you to take action on two bills being heard Tuesday, 4/29. 

We urge you to oppose HB 217 in Senate Election Law. This bill proposes changes to the absentee voter registration process that would require individuals to submit documentation verifying their citizenship, age, domicile, and identity. This documentation must accompany the absentee registration affidavit and voter registration form submitted to local clerks. Additionally, the bill modifies procedures for in-person absentee ballot submission, mandating that voters present valid photo identification to be considered verified; otherwise, their signatures will be subject to comparison and potentially lead to the rejection of ballots without giving voters any chance to cure - a practice that was found to be unconstitutional in the 2018 US district court case Saucedo v Gardner. The bill aims to align the absentee voting process with in-person citizenship registration requirements enacted under the state's newly established voter suppression law, resulting from the passage of HB1569 last session. Both HB217 and HB1569 emulate the SAVE Act, which just passed the US House and would enact similar legislation on the federal level. 140 million Americans lack passports, while 69 million married women don’t have updated documents to reflect name changes. That’s not to mention the burden HB 217 would impose on young and elderly people who don’t have access to these documents, as well as low-income individuals who can’t afford the hefty administrative costs of obtaining new ones. 

We also urge you to oppose HB 514 in Senate Judiciary. This bill would allow for private individuals to sue over alleged election law violations - a responsibility that appropriately lies with the Attorney General and Department of Justice. HB514 is unnecessary given NH’s record of highly secure elections, and opens the door to partisan abuse of both the electoral and legal system. It threatens to burden state election workers with costly and intimidating lawsuits, despite New Hampshire’s strong record of secure and trustworthy elections. This would distract election workers from focusing on their official duties and would divert resources away from more pressing election-related needs, such as voter education, security, and accessibility improvements.

Action 2 - Call or schedule an in-person meeting with your representatives to give your 2-cents on the remaining anti-voter bills this session!

Oppose

• SB287
• SB213
• SB43
• HB217
• HB514

Support

• SB218
• HB67

Action 3 - Spread some good news, keep our activist spirits up! Share this article with 5 friends: Federal Court Blocks Part of Anti-Voter Trump Executive Order Challenged by League of Women Voters

On April 24th, a federal court judge issued a ruling in League of Women Voters et. al. v. Trump et. al., temporarily blocking the US Election Assistance Commission (EAC) from implementing a provision in President Trump's executive order adding a requirement to show a passport or birth certificate proving citizenship when registering to vote. Simply put, this would have worked to disenfranchise millions of eligible American voters.

"The League of Women Voters is heartened by this ruling, which is a major victory for voters across the country. While the fight is far from over, we're glad the court agreed that a President cannot ‘short-circuit’ Congress and unilaterally use an illegal executive order to obliterate the rights of millions of voters. Broadly, this executive order and the SAVE Act try to make it more difficult for American voters, particularly women voters, to participate in our elections — but the League hasn't and will not back down. The League of Women Voters will continue to fight to defend our democracy from those who seek to restrict it.” Marcia Johnson, chief counsel of the League of Women Voters of the United States.

This is a big win for the health and well-being of our democracy, and is a clear sign that our collective efforts are not in vain. 

Actions for April 21-25

Action 1 - Sign in on Bills (Link to Tracker)

This Tuesday, April 22, there are 6 bills being heard before the House Election Law Committee that Open Democracy encourages you to take action on. 

First, we urge you to support SB218, SB103, and SB16. SB218 would allow clerks to preprocess absentee ballots, which would both speed up election day processes and allow applicants time to cure any defects. SB103 would require towns and cities to have at least one polling place per every 15,000 registered voters unless the town or city has received approval from the secretary of state and attorney general for fewer locations, as well as allow the Secretary of State and Attorney General to create conditions for towns and cities to follow if they seek to utilize one polling place for more than 15,000 voters. This would address the issue of long lines on election day that have affected many NH towns. Last up to support is SB16, which would require municipalities to post a copy of election return forms on their websites and in public locations. This would increase local levels of electoral transparency.

We strongly urge you to oppose SB43, SB213, and SB287. SB43 would remove articles of clothing from the definition of electioneering. This could quickly lead to chaos, as many voters tend to linger after casting their votes. SB213 would change the standard for absentee voting to "it is more likely than not" that a voter will be absent, in addition to requiring the presentation of proof of identity, citizenship, age, and domicile when applying for an absentee ballot. This would add unnecessary and burdensome hurdles to the absentee voting process, which is already the preferred method for many disabled and elderly voters. Last up to oppose is SB287, another absentee voting bill. SB287 would require applicants for absentee ballots to present a copy of their photo ID with their application if they wish to have their ballot sent to an address other than that appearing on the official checklist. This would most impact elderly, disabled, student, and military voters, all of whom have equally valid reasons for requesting their absentee ballot to addresses other than those that appear on the checklist. 

Here are uJoin links with pre-drafted emails to send to the members of the House Election Law Committee regarding your opposition to SB213 and SB287. Please feel free to edit and further personalize each script!

OPPOSE SB213 uJoin Link

OPPOSE SB287 uJoin Link

Action 2 - Register for "Live from the Frontlines: The Fight for Our Democracy" Conversation with Ari Berman

This event features Ari Berman, voting rights expert and award-winning journalist at Mother Jones, in a conversation examining the first 100 days of Trump’s second term and the growing grassroots opposition mobilizing in response. It will explore coordinated attacks on democratic institutions, civil society, and the rule of law - including efforts to undermine judicial elections in North Carolina and the use of rogue executive orders. The discussion will highlight how these actions are interconnected and how communities are pushing back. The final 20 minutes will include a live audience Q&A.

Tuesday, April 29

Online 7-8PM  

Register HERE

Action 3 - Write an LTE on bills that would unnecessarily restrict absentee voting.

• SB213 
• SB287

How to Submit an LTE in NH

Actions for April 14-18

Action 1 - Sign in on Bills

This Tuesday, April 15, there are 3 bills to take action on that are being heard by the Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs Committee. First up to oppose is HB288, which would limit how far in advance of an election an absentee ballot may be requested. This could interfere with UOCAVA voters' ability to request, receive, and return their ballots in an efficient manner, depending on their particular deployment situations. Next, we support HB464, which would prohibit certain candidates for political office from participating in counting ballots. This is common sense legislation and would work to strengthen security in the counting process. Lastly for this Tuesday, we support HB626, which directs the Secretary of State to implement a vulnerability disclosure program for certain election systems. 

The following week on Tuesday, April 22, there are 6 bills to take action on. First, we urge you to support SB218, SB103, and SB16. SB218 would allow clerks to preprocess absentee ballots, which would both speed up election day processes and allow applicants time to cure any defects. SB103 would require towns and cities to have at least one polling place per every 15,000 registered voters unless the town or city has received approval from the secretary of state and attorney general for fewer locations, as well as allow the Secretary of State and Attorney General to create conditions for towns and cities to follow if they seek to utilize one polling place for more than 15,000 voters. This would address the issue of long lines on election day that have affected many NH towns. Last up to support is SB16, which would require municipalities to post a copy of election return forms on their websites and in public locations. This would increase local levels of electoral transparency.

We strongly urge you to oppose SB43, SB213, and SB287. SB43 would remove articles of clothing from the definition of electioneering. This could quickly lead to chaos, as many voters tend to linger after casting their votes. SB213 would change the standard for absentee voting to "it is more likely than not" that a voter will be absent, in addition to requiring the presentation of proof of identity, citizenship, age, and domicile when applying for an absentee ballot. This would add unnecessary and burdensome hurdles to the absentee voting process, which is already the preferred method for many disabled and elderly voters. Last up to oppose is SB287, another absentee voting bill. SB287 would require applicants for absentee ballots to present a copy of their photo ID with their application if they wish to have their ballot sent to an address other than that appearing on the official checklist. This would most impact elderly, disabled, student, and military voters, all of whom have equally valid reasons for requesting their absentee ballot to addresses other than those that appear on the checklist. 

Here are uJoin links with pre-drafted emails to send to the members of the House Election Law Committee regarding your opposition to SB213 and SB287. Please feel free to edit and further personalize each script!

OPPOSE SB213 uJoin Link

OPPOSE SB287 uJoin Link

Action 2 - Call your Senator

The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, (which doesn't SAVE anything) passed the US House last week.  This bill would erect unnecessary and discriminatory barriers to registering to vote in the US, especially for women who have changed their surname, but also for trans voters, young voters without a passport, newly naturalized citizens, veterans, rural voters, and anyone who does not have the privilege of easily meeting excessive documentation requirements. Please call Senators Shaheen and Hassan and urge them to vote no on this anti-voter bill!

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen: Call (202) 224-2841 / 603-647-7500

Sen. Maggie Hassan: Call (202) 224-3324 / (603) 622-2204

Action 3 - RSVP and attend one of our Upcoming Events

Tuesday, April 15, 7 pm, Open Democracy Book Club 100% Democracy.  Former Connecticut Secretary of State Miles Rapoport joins us to discuss hos book 100% Democracy: The Case for Universal Voting.  He'll argue that universal participation in our elections should be a cornerstone of our system.

Saturday, April 19, 11-1, The Granite State Democracy Tour stops in Laconia! See the knitted New Hampshire State House created by many NH citizens. Talk with community experts who have a deep knowledge of elections, representation, and the legislative process.  Guest speakers include Olivia Zink, and Liz Tentarelli of League of Women Voters-NH.  Belknap Mill, Laconia.

Saturday, April 26, 10-noon, Granite State Democracy Tour is in Concord. See the knitted New Hampshire State House created by many NH citizens. Hear presentations about the electoral process and its impact on legislation. Guest speakers include Eve Jacobs-Carnahan, organizer of Knit Democracy Together, children's book authors Christy Mihaly and Nancy Pearson, and Anna Brown, Executive Director, Citizens Count.

Saturday, May 10, 11-1. Last stop of the Granite State Democracy Tour. Eve Jacobs-Carnahan is joined by Charles Wheelan, Policy Fellow at Rockefeller Center, Founder of Unite America and Brendan Nyhan, Professor of Government, Dartmouth College.  It's your last chance to see the knitted New Hampshire State House.

 

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Actions for April 14-

Action 1 - Email Legislators About Upcoming Bills

Ask members of the House Election Law committee to oppose SB213 and SB287.

OPPOSE SB213 uJoin Link

SB213 requires the presentation of proof of identity, citizenship, age, and domicile when applying for an absentee ballot in addition to the inclusion of a witness affirmation signed by a Notary Public or Justice of the Peace to confirm the absentee ballot applicant's identity, putting undue burden on already vulnerable voters. 

Sample Email Language:

As a concerned NH voter, I respectfully urge you to oppose SB213. This bill requires the affidavit to include a declaration of U.S. citizenship and mandates documentation such as a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization papers, along with a valid photo ID and proof of residence, in addition to requiring voters to find a Notary Public or Justice of the Peace to affirm their identity. This places unnecessary restrictions on the rights of those who already struggle the most in casting their vote and will work to decrease voter turnout.

Many of the voters who utilize absentee ballots do so for mobility or health reasons, which may prevent them from being able to seek out a Notary Public or Justice of the Peace. This would effectively prevent them from being able to vote. Additionally, the requirement to include photocopies of their official documents could be an insurmountable hurdle for many voters who may not have access to a copy machine or have the funds to purchase one of their own. Please side with voters in recommending SB213 as inexpedient to legislate.  

OPPOSE SB287 uJoin Link

SB287 would require applicants for absentee ballots to present a copy of their photo identification with their application. This would create additional burden on voters seeking to use absentee voting. Voters are already required to present proof of citizenship, proof of identity, proof of domicile, and proof of age during the registration process. This bill would require voters who are requesting their ballot is sent to a different address to show the clerk photo identification that meets the requirements of RSA659:13 in person prior to election day or requires a notarized signature on the application form. Notarizing services are often not free, so this would create a monetary burden for any voters who were unable to be physically present at their clerk's office before the election.

Sample Email Language:

As a New Hampshire voter, I urge you to oppose SB287, requiring applicants for absentee ballots to present a copy of their photo identification with their application. This bill introduces an unnecessary hurdle to the absentee voting process. Voters are already required to present their birth certificate or passport as proof of citizenship during the registration process. It is excessive to require further proof of identity from voters who choose to request an absentee ballot by mail to an address other than that shown on the official checklist. The elderly, voters with disabilities, students, traveling workers, and military voters would be the most impacted - all who have equally valid reasons for requesting their absentee ballot to addresses other than those that appear on the checklist. 

The bill only allows these voters to verify their identify by showing their ID to their clerk prior to election day or by getting a notarized signature on the application form. Finding a notary public is costly and time consuming, so this would create a monetary burden for any voters who were unable to be physically present at their clerk's office before the election. It is for these reasons that I urge you to oppose SB287.

Actions for April 7-11

Action 1 - Email Legislators About Upcoming Bills

Ask your Representatives to support HB67 before the House Floor on Thursday April 10. 

UJoin - https://ujoin.co/campaigns/3448/actions/public?action_id=4589 

This bill would establish an ongoing agreement with the secretary of state that would permit the use of accessible voting machines for all elections (local, state, and federal). These devices  would make all elections accessible for visually-impaired voters, and voters with other disabilities. 

Sample Email Language:

As a concerned New Hampshire resident, I am asking you to support HB67 and ensure our elections are accessible for all. All voters have a right to participate in our elections and have the privacy of casting their ballots independently. This bill will create a lasting solution that will provide voters with disabilities access to accessible voting systems during federal and municipal elections. These systems would enable all individuals with disabilities to vote without the need for assistance and with the same degree of privacy that is accorded to non disabled electors voting at the same polling place.

Please vote ought to pass on HB 67 and support fair and equitable voting rights for all New Hampshire residents.

Action 2 - Call students, teachers or volunteers across our state to help NH high school students register to vote before they graduate this spring!

At the beginning of 2024, roughly 9% of 18 year olds were registered to vote. By the end of the election season, the voter registration rates for 18 year olds rose to over 63%. Now it is time to keep these numbers trending in the right direction! 

We have dates for drives in Pinkerton (Derry), Manchester Central, Exeter, Portsmouth, Concord, Bedford and Kearsarge - we have other schools like Milford, Spaulding and Mermicak Valley that we are working on dates. We would like to add a few more schools. 

Email Sam - to adopt a school where you can connect Sam and Ellie with teachers and students so that all NH towns can have a voter registration drive. 

Action 3 - Host a PDP talk 

We have developed a 40-minute zoom presentation which we are now offering to community groups across NH to encourage and increase civic awareness and active civic participation. Our program includes a video entitled “Two Seats of Democracy,” professionally produced in front of the NH State House. Everyday people on the street were interviewed and asked if they had experienced issues or problems in their daily lives which could be resolved if only their state legislators would work for the benefit of constituents instead of working exclusively for wealthy donors, corporate entities, or political parties.

Our presentation will show how NH folks can become active participants in our democratic process by joining our weekly, online action groups. We will keep you abreast of current pro-voter legislation and grassroots efforts to end the corrupting influence of Big Money in politics. You will see first-hand how ODA works in unison with other grassroots groups so that all voices can be heard. We will give you suggestions and guidance for steps you can take each week to promote pro-voter legislation.

Bonus Action - share social media post 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1KDjBEL1E2/ 

Actions for March 29-April 4

Action 1 - Sign-in on Bills/Email Legislators About Upcoming Bills

Full Legislative Action List here.

OPPOSE

HB365 - relative to proof of United States citizenship for indigent voters

Executive Session: 4/1/2025 at 10:00 a.m.
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Finance

Link to Email the House Election Committee via UJoin

HB107 - Political Ads - relative to political advertising printed in newspapers, periodicals, or billboards. 

Public Hearing: 4/1/2025 at 9:15 a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: Senate Election Law

Link to Sign in on Senate Bills

 

SUPPORT

HB269 - relative to the date for correction of the voter checklist.

Public Hearing: 4/1/2025 at 9:30 a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: Senate Election Law

Link to Sign in on Senate Bills

HB294 - relative to the processing of absentee ballots

Public Hearing: 4/1/2025 at 9:45 a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: Senate Election Law

Link to Sign in on Senate Bills

 

Action 2 - Contact Your Congress Members to OPPOSE the SAVE Act

We've heard reporting that the SAVE Act, which would disenfranchise millions of voters, may be voted on next week. This legislation would require strict proof of citizenship, such as a passport or birth certificate, documents that millions of Americans don’t have access to. Requiring every citizen to provide a passport or birth certificate in person to register or update their voter information would impact all of us, but would especially impact working-class Americans, older voters, women who’ve changed their last name, and those who’ve lost essential documents due to natural disasters.

Please contact your Members of Congress to voice their opposition to this bill. You can email your congressmen via Declaration for American Democracy Coalition's sign-and-send petition tool here.

 

Action 3 - Social Media Post on Executive Order About Elections

March 25, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order to create new federal election requirements. Key provisions include:

• Mandate proof of citizenship: Require the national mail voter registration form designed by the Election Assistance Commission to require applicants to provide documentary proof of citizenship as defined by a list of documents contained in the order: a U.S. passport or a REAL ID, military ID, or other state- or federal-issued ID that explicitly indicates the bearer is a U.S. citizen. This proposal is identical to one in the SAVE Act currently being considered in Congress.
• Impose DOGE review of state voter registration databases: Require the Department of Homeland Security, in coordination with the DOGE Administrator, to review each state’s voter registration list to ensure consistency with federal requirements.
• Involve federal law enforcement in elections: Direct the U.S. Attorney General to enter into agreements with state officials to investigate and prosecute suspected violations of state and federal election laws. States that fail to cooperate with the Attorney General would face withholding of federal grants and election-related funding.
• Restrict mail ballot return deadline: Require all states to set a ballot receipt deadline of Election Day. States may not tabulate absentee or mail-in ballots received after Election Day for federal elections. States who fail to comply with this requirement face enforcement action by the Department of Justice and withholding of federal funds for election administration.

Much like the SAVE Act, if this order is followed it would disenfranchise millions of voters. So make some noise about this across your social media and make it clear to our current administration that voters do not support this action.

Link to News Article About the Order

 

Bonus Action: Attend/Share April 5th Day of Action Events

April 5th is going to be a massive national day of action with visibility events  taking place across the country. The largest event will be taking place in Washington DC, but there will be several happening right here in New Hampshire and we want to encourage as many citizens to get out and join other members of their community in using their voice as possible. I have included links and details to all of the NH events that we have been alerted to below. If you hear of any additional events please let us know so we can add them to the list.

New Hampshire Events

Concord Rally - in front of the State House at 12pm

Conway Rally - intersection of Route 16 & 153 at 12pm

Dover Visibility Event - Week's Crossing, 238 Indian Brook Rd. (park in Tucker's lot) at 2pm

Enfield event - in front of community center on Main Street at 10am

Hanover Seniors Visibility Event - The Greens Condominiums, 53 Lyme Rd. at 9am

Hanover Rally - Hanover Town Hall, 41 Main St at 2pm

Keene Rally - Central Square in downtown Keene at 12pm

Littleton Visibility Event - 12pm

Nashua Visibility Event - 12pm

New London - town green on Main Street at 1pm

Portsmouth Protest - 2454 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth at 10am

Portsmouth Rally - Market Square at 12pm (please note, we have heard there are multiple events happening in Portsmouth)

Wolfeboro Visibility Event - Pickering Corner, 136 S Main St. at 12pm

 

*** New Hampshire Forward (an Indivisible Group) is arranging transportation from Salem NH to DC for the April 5th Rally.

They have three 15-Passenger vans that can accommodate a total of 40 people. Cost for the van is $75 per person roundtrip.

They have also arranged for hotel rooms at a negotiated rate of $100+tax.

Click here for complete information and to reserve your spot in the vans: https://www.nh-forward.org/hands-off

Actions for March 22-28

Action 1 - Email Legislators About Upcoming Bills

Full Legislative Action List here.

 

SB287 - requiring applicants for absentee ballots to present a copy of their photo identification with their application.

Senate Floor Vote: 3/27/2025
Location: State House

Link to Email Your Senator via UJoin

HB217 - relative to absentee ballots

House Floor Vote: 3/26/2025
Location: State House

Link to Email Your Representatives via Ujoin

HB385 - reestablishing voter identification exceptions

House Floor Vote: 3/26/2025
Location: State House

Link to Email Your Representatives via UJoin

CACR2 - relating to the drawing of district boundaries. Providing that no district boundaries shall be drawn in a way that favors or disfavors any political party or candidate.

HB363 - establishing redistricting criteria.

House Floor Vote: 3/25/2025 - 3/26/2025
Location: State House

Link to Email Your Representatives via UJoin

HB514 - allowing private persons to sue for violations of election laws.

House Floor Vote: 3/25/2025
Location: State House

Link to Email Your Representatives via UJoin

HB311 - relative to permissible campaign contributions by business organizations and labor unions

HB141 - relative to campaign disclosures for limited liability companies.

HB175 - relative to defined coordinated expenditures

House Floor Vote: 3/25/2025 - 3/26/2025
Location: State House

Link to Email Your Representatives via UJoin

 

Action 2 - Attend/host a viewing party for Rise up for Freedom trainings

We won’t let unelected billionaires go unchecked and dismantle our democracy. As we face the growing threat of autocracy in our country, it's more crucial than ever that we come together to build a stronger, more united movement for freedom and democracy. 

To support this effort, we're excited to invite you to the Rise for Freedom Trainings

This series of weekly two-hour training sessions that will be held over the next 7-8 weeks. These sessions will explore how grassroots organizers like you can organize against the threats we face and build capacity for mobilization within your communities:

• • Thurs. March 27- 8-10 pm ET, 5-7 pm PT 1st Training: How did we get here? Intro to organizing under creeping autocracy
  • Thurs. April 3 - 2nd Training: Building to a critical mass locally (outreach)
  • Thurs. April 10 - 3rd Training: How to talk to people you might disagree with
  • Thurs. April 17 - 4th Training: Making political violence backfire 
  • Thurs. April 24 - 5th Training: Mutual Aid & Structures for Stronger Local Organizing
  • Thurs. April 1 - 6th Training: Advanced Strategic organizing skills
  • Thurs. May 8 - 7th Training: Advanced Strategic organizing skills II

The content will be taught online, but the hope is that you will gather your community together in your living rooms, common rooms, libraries, etc., to participate in these trainings on organizing effectively in times of creeping autocracy. So be sure to invite your friends, family, and other members of your community to join you for the training!

There will be breakout sessions and activities where Zoom will be paused for you to do the exercises in each training in person together. For folks who are homebound, we encourage the use of Google Meet or other tools to gather a small group of people to do the breakout training exercises with so you still get the community-building element of the training. 

RSVP HERE

 

Action 3 - LTE on the election law bills going to the House Floor

There are several bills going to the House Floor this that paint a clear picture about our legislators' priorities. Many of the bills that would improve our democracy (fair redistricting, campaign finance reforms, etc.) left the Election Law Committee with ITL recommendations along party lines (10 Rep - 8 Dem), while bills that would put up more barriers to voting (restrictions to absentee ballots) left the Election Law Committee with OTP recommendations along party lines (10 Rep - 8 Dem). It is important to spread awareness about how our elected officials are legislating, so consider submitting an LTE highlighting what our leaders are voting for and what those votes mean for New Hampshire voters.

How to Submit and LTE in NH

 

Bonus: RSVP/Share Upcoming Events

High School Voter Registration Run a Drive Workshop
March 23, 2025 at 7:00pm

Join students, teachers, and volunteers across your state to help NH high school students register to vote before they graduate this spring!

Learn more & RSVP

 

Granite State Democracy Tour Keene 
Mason Library, Keene State College 
Saturday, March 29, 2025, 11 am - 1 pm 

Join us when the Granite State Democracy Tour stops in Keene! See the knitted New Hampshire State House created by many NH citizens and explore artifacts from the Doris “Granny D” Haddock collection, including the sneakers she wore when she walked across the United States raising awareness about the influence of money in elections.

Speakers:

Olivia Zink, Executive Director, Coalition for Open Democracy
Eve Jacobs-Carnahan, organizer of Knit Democracy Together
Martha Madsen, Law Related Education Coordinator, NH Bar Association

Learn more & RSVP

 

Open Democracy Book Club: 100% Democracy
April 15, 2025 at 7pm

Please join Open Democracy Book Club on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 7pm Eastern for a discussion of 100% Democracy: The Case for Universal Voting.  Author Miles Rapoport will be joining us for the first half hour for discussion and Q&A.

Learn more & RSVP

 

Screening of "Unseen" 
Red River Theater - Concord, NH
April 26, 2025 at 1pm (Doors open at 12:30pm)

The movie tells the story of Pedro, an aspiring social worker who faces restrictions as a blind, undocumented immigrant to get his college degree. But when attaining his dreams leads to new challenges, what will Pedro do? Using experimental cinematography, unseen reimagines film accessibility through an audio-centric experience.

At the conclusion of the movie, we'll hold a panel discussion about issues raised in the film and how they are impacting the disability and immigrant community in New Hampshire. Tickets coming soon.

 

Actions for March 15-21

Action 1 - Email Legislators About Upcoming Bills

Full Legislative Action List here.

 

SB287 - requiring applicants for absentee ballots to present a copy of their photo identification with their application.

Executive Session: 3/18/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: Senate Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via UJoin

 

HB323 - requiring the presentation of a government-issued photographic means of identification in order to vote

Executive Session: 3/18/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via UJoin

HB289 - regarding domicile qualifications for voting

Executive Session: 3/18/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via UJoin

HB418 - relative to eligibility for absentee voting
HB217 - relative to absentee ballots
HB686 - requiring a voter to provide identification when requesting an absentee ballot. 

Executive Session: 3/18/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via Ujoin

HB618 - enables election officials to verify the single use of an out-of-state driver's license presented when a person votes by using the centralized voter registration database.
HB684 - preventing the use of student identification cards as a means to obtain a ballot.

Executive Session: 3/18/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via Ujoin

HB385 - reestablishing voter identification exceptions

Executive Session: 3/18/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via UJoin

Action 2 - Contact Your Federal Legislators and Ask Them to Hold a Town Hall

We want increased transparency and for all of our legislators to truly listen to the will of their constituents, so this week we are encouraging you to contact your federal legislators and ask them to hold a town hall.

Chris Pappas
Office addresses and phone numbers
Email Form

Maggie Goodlander
Office addresses and phone numbers
Email Form

Senator Jeanne Shaheen
(202) 224-2841
Email

Senator Maggie Hassan
(202) 224-3324
Email

Action 3 - Thank you to poll workers

If your town is one of the many municipalities around the state that held their town meeting election on Tuesday, March 11th, please take a few moments this week to send a thank you note to your election workers for making the day run smoothly. Also, with HB1569 now in effect many were turned away from the polls due to missing documents. Below are two surveys about how the election day experience was this time around. Hearing directly from impacted voters and election officials will strengthen our advocacy as we work to combat even more restrictive voting bills, so if you know of any please share the surveys with them.

• Voter Election Day Experience Survey – Encourage voters who faced challenges or barriers to report their experiences.

• Election Official Experience Survey – Election workers can provide crucial insights into how these changes played out in practice.

Actions for March 8-14

Action 1 - Email Legislators About Upcoming Bills

Full Legislative Action List here.

 

There is one Senate bill being heard in Senate Election Law this week that we would like you to sign in on, SB287.

OPPOSE

SB287 - requiring applicants for absentee ballots to present a copy of their photo identification with their application.

Public Hearing: 3/11/2025 at 9:30 a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: Senate Election Law

Link to Sign in on Senate Bills

 

There are several bills that are either going to executive session or are on their way to the House Floor for a full vote. There are six that we would like you to email the House Election Law Committee or your Representatives about via our UJoin email links below.

SB213 - relative to absentee voting.

Senate Floor Vote: 3/13/2025
Location: State House

Link to Email Your Senator via UJoin

HB317 - preventing a supervisor of the checklist from verifying a person's identity without identification, even if they personally know that person.

Executive Session: 3/11/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via UJoin

HB323 - requiring the presentation of a government-issued photographic means of identification in order to vote

Executive Session: 3/11/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via UJoin

HB289 - regarding domicile qualifications for voting

Executive Session: 3/11/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via UJoin

HB311 - relative to permissible campaign contributions by business organizations and labor unions

Executive Session: 3/11/2025 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Email the Committee via UJoin

 

HB365 - relative to proof of United States citizenship for indigent voters

House Floor Vote: 3/13/2025
Location: State House

Link to Email Your Representatives via UJoin

 

Action 2 - Contact Your Member of Congress to Support HJ Res 54

Representative Jayapal has reintroduced HJ Res 54 a bill that would overturn Citizens United and amend the constitution to clarify that the rights protected and extended by the Constitution are the rights of natural persons only NOT corporations. This legislation would be a huge step toward getting money out of politics so please reach out to your member of Congress and tell them to fervently support HJ Res 54.

HJ Res 54 Text

 

Chris Pappas
Office addresses and phone numbers
Email Form

Maggie Goodlander
Office addresses and phone numbers
Email Form

 

Action 3 - Town Meeting! Vote - Spread the Word - Observe

Town meeting is coming up for several towns on Tuesday, March 11th! Historically, voter turnout for local elections is significantly smaller than for federal elections - which is a shame because your voice is most powerful at the local level. We'd like your help to fix that!

First, make sure that if your town's town meeting is on Tuesday that you get out and vote so your voice is heard. Second, spread the word - make sure your friends, family, and other members of your community know about the upcoming election. Share when and where your town meeting will be held, what documents new voters will need to register, and any other helpful information about your local election that you think others need to know (this can be done via calls, emails, texts, social media, or even word of mouth). Finally, if you are available to be a nonpartisan poll observer for part of the day please sign up with Sarah Chouinard and help us monitor the effects HB1569 is having on our local government.

Actions for March 1-7

Action 1 - Sign-in on Bills 

Full Legislative Action List here.

SUPPORT

SB214 - enabling no-excuse absentee registration and voting.

Public Hearing: 3/4/2025 at 9:15 a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: Senate Election Law

Link to Sign in on Senate Bills

SB218 - relative to absentee ballot outer envelopes.

Public Hearing: 3/4/2025 at 10:00 a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: Senate Election Law

Link to Sign in on Senate Bills

HB492 - allowing political parties to request recounts when no candidate is named on the ballot.

Public Hearing: 3/4/2025 at 10:40a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Sign in on House Bills 

HB574 - requiring background checks of the private companies and their contractors who program and maintain New Hampshire voting machines.

Public Hearing: 3/4/2025 at 11:00a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Sign in on House Bills 

 

OPPOSE

SB216 - relative to the authority of moderators on election day.

Public Hearing: 3/4/2025 at 9:45 a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: Senate Election Law

Link to Sign in on Senate Bills

HB514 - allowing private persons to sue for violations of election laws.

Public Hearing: 3/4/2025 at 11:40a.m. 
Location: Legislative Office Building
Committee: House Election Law

Link to Sign in on House Bills 

 

Action 2 - Write to members of the House Election Law Committee ahead of next week's Executive Session schedule.

• Redistricting reform
  • SUPPORT CACR2
  • SUPPORT HB363
    • Link to UJoin Email

• Closing/expanding primary elections
  • OPPOSE HB220
  • SUPPORT HB714
    • Link to UJoin Email

• Proof of citizenship for indigent voters
  • OPPOSE HB365
    • Link to UJoin Email

Action 3 - Contact your representatives and urge them to support SB219: requiring the secretary of state to enter into a membership agreement with the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC) ahead of its appearance on next week's Consent Calendar. 

Link to UJoin Email