Granite Steps: Stumbles, Surprises, and Successes on the New Hampshire Primary Trail

A new history of New Hampshire's First in the Nation presidential primary focusing on the campaigns of 1992-2012: Bill Clinton's first campaign; George H.W. Bush's re-election struggle; Pat Buchanan's insurgent campaigns; George W. Bush's stumble; Al Gore and John Kerry as successful frontrunners; John McCain's two improbable victories; Mitt Romney's second chance; and the epic battle between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Published in partnership with the New Hampshire Union Leader newspaper. "The rich political history of a state like no other, a primary at once unique and classically American, told with an appreciation for great storytelling and the rhythms of the battle for the White House on a human level." - Mark Halperin, Bloomberg Politics and co-author of Game Change and Double Down "American history and especially the history of the Presidency has been uniquely formed and impacted by the New Hampshire Primary. In this book by one of New Hampshire's leading historians and politically knowledgeable people, Fergus Cullen, has explored this fascinating and important stop on the road to the Presidency. New Hampshire may be a small state but has, on numerous occasions, had a huge effect on the outcome of our national election and played a key role in determining who would win the presidential nomination of Democratic and Republican Party. The stories behind the events that have been so pivotal in these outcomes are fascinating and make for great reading." - Former U.S. Senator Judd Gregg "The New Hampshire Primary requires the candidates to interact with real people. They have to get out from behind the rope lines, the podiums, and the media ads, and meet with voters in their living rooms, their kitchens, and in diners. I am convinced that the New Hampshire Primary not only makes them better candidates, but also better Presidents." - Former Gov. John Lynch