Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) will be the keynote speaker of the New Hampshire Democratic Party Convention in September 2023.
In a statement announcing Shapiro’s speaking slot, the New Hampshire Democratic Party touted his demonstrated ability to win a tough race in a battleground state and his focus on delivering for the people and building strong coalitions across party lines.
“New Hampshire is home to the most exciting Governor’s race in the nation right now, and Granite Staters are excited at the opportunity to return the corner office to responsible leadership focused on delivering for all Granite Staters. Hearing from Governor Shapiro on his record of accomplishment and success is the perfect kick off to our 2024 election efforts,” New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley said in the announcement.
“Gov. Shapiro knows how to win tough races and build strong coalitions across party lines in order to protect fundamental freedoms and deliver real results for working families,” Democratic Governors Association Executive Director Meghan Meehan-Draper said in the statement.
“We’re excited to see him bring his winning record to New Hampshire, one of the most critical battlegrounds in the country, where Granite Staters have a chance to elect a governor who will defend their rights and tackle the most pressing challenges facing their state,” she added.
In 2024, New Hampshire voters will elect a governor, as well as play a key role in potentially flipping control of the U.S. House of Representatives and determining the outcome of the presidential election.
President Biden won New Hampshire’s 4 electoral votes in 2020, winning the popular vote, with 52.7 percent to former President Trump’s 45.4 percent of the popular vote.
Biden’s fate in New Hampshire, however, remains unclear, as the Democratic National Committee enacted changes to the primary schedule that puts South Carolina ahead of New Hampshire, in violation of a New Hampshire law requiring it to go first. Biden might not appear on the ballot, and some expect a write-in campaign to happen if Biden chooses not to formally participate in the primary.
Still, Shapiro stressed the essential role New Hampshire voters will have in Biden’s reelection prospects.
“In Pennsylvania, we defeated extremism and showed the rest of the country what it looks like to come together behind a vision for a better future – one where we create real opportunity while defending our rights and advancing real freedom for all,” Shapiro said in the announcement.
“New Hampshire voters face a similar choice next November – they will decide a critical open race for Governor and play a central role in reelecting President Biden and retaking the U.S. House of Representatives,” Shapiro continued. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to speak to Granite Staters at this critical time for both New Hampshire and our nation’s future and rally with them behind Democratic candidates who, like me, believe government can be a productive force for good.”
The event will take place on Sept. 30 at Bedford High School.