Politics | By Kim Casey
December 06, 2024

The fall semester at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics (NHIOP) has been filled with engaging events and discussions, as the 2024 election cycle reached its peak. Throughout the term, the Institute has hosted a variety of dynamic programs that have sparked curiosity and deepened understanding of key political issues, historical contexts, and the importance of civic participation. From author talks to expert panel events and polling data from the Saint Anselm College Survey Center (SACSC), the Institute has provided a platform for learning, reflection, and dialogue on the topics that matter most. Here are a few standout moments from the season:

Student ambassadors standing on the set of WMUR

August

As the election season ramped up, the NHIOP partnered with WMUR to host the New Hampshire primary election debates. Several Kevin B. Harrington Student Ambassadors had the unique opportunity to attend both the gubernatorial and congressional debates, gaining firsthand experience in media production. Working behind the scenes, the students played a key role in supporting the event, engaging with candidates, escorting VIPs and their families, and assisting with various tasks. This hands-on involvement provided invaluable insights into the logistics of broadcasting high-profile events and the inner workings of a professional news studio, enriching their understanding of the media landscape during a pivotal election cycle.

Representative Ro Khanna shaking hands with a student during his visit to campus

September

The month started with a Labor Day visit from progressive Representative Ro Khanna of California’s 17th Congressional District. On Monday, September 2nd, he spoke in the NHIOP auditorium, sharing his insights with the community.

Rep. Khanna was joined by N.H. immigration advocates Eva Castillo of the NH Alliance for Immigrants and Refugees, Grace Kindeke of the American Friends Service Committee NH, and Sarah Jane Knoy of the Granite State Organizing Project. Together, they discussed immigration reform in the Granite State and across the country, leading up to the 2024 Presidential Election.

(from left to right) Ariel Edwards-Levy, Nathaniel Rakich, and Simone Pathe at the State of the Race event

On September 19th, the Institute hosted “The State of the Race 2024,” a panel discussion with three prominent voices in political journalism: Nathaniel Rakich, senior elections analyst at FiveThirtyEight; Ariel Edwards-Levy, polling and analytics editor at CNN; and Simone Pathe, senior Washington editor for CNN Politics.

Moderated by Executive Director Neil Levesque, the event offered expert insights on the current race, tips for interpreting polls, and key developments to watch during the campaign season.

Brody and Luke Mullins discussing their book "The Wolves of K Street: The Secret History of How Big Money Took Over Big Government" with NHIOP Director Neil Levesque

October

Moving into October, the Institute presented a Bookmark Series discussion with authors Brody and Luke Mullins about their new book, “The Wolves of K Street: The Secret History of How Big Money Took Over Big Government.”

The event explored the complex world of corporate power and lobbying in Washington over the past fifty years. The authors shared eye-opening insights into how well-meaning reforms have often strengthened the influence of lobbyists, shifting focus from Congress to the public.

They captivated the audience with true stories about key figures like Evan Morris, Roger Stone, and Paul Manafort, highlighting the intricate web of influence in modern American politics.

Later in the month, student ambassadors hosted a Pizza & Politics discussion on October 8th featuring N.H. State Senator Donna Soucy '89. Senator Soucy shared insights from her journey, recounting her experiences as a student on the Hilltop and her path to becoming the Senate President in Concord.

On October 11th, Congressman Chris Pappas visited Saint Anselm College to celebrate the Jean School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Students and faculty from all majors attended as the campus celebrated the construction of the new facility, Grappone Hall.

The Kevin B. Harrington Student Ambassadors welcomed Congressman Pappas to the Hilltop, and Politics major Grace Blais ’25 had the opportunity to escort him to the podium.

Students behind the podium where President Biden delivered a speech on lowering prescription drug costs

The month wrapped up with a memorable visit from President Joe Biden on October 22. A group of Kevin B. Harrington Student Ambassadors had the unique opportunity to attend President Biden’s speech in New Hampshire. The ambassadors also volunteered for the White House during the President's visit to NHTI, where he addressed the important issue of lowering the cost of prescription drugs.

Students were involved in various roles, including working with the press, checking in VIP guests, and serving as ushers. They also had the chance to witness the inner workings of a presidential event, with speakers such as Senator Bernie Sanders, Senator Maggie Hassan, Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Representative Annie Kuster, and Mayor Byron Champlain.

November

The beginning of November was eagerly anticipated as the entire nation geared up for the 2024 general election. After months of polling, debates, primary elections, and intense speculation, the long-awaited culmination of this unconventional election cycle took place on November 5th. To watch the election results unfold, the student ambassadors hosted an election watch party in the NHIOP Auditorium, drawing a large crowd of students and faculty eager to witness history in the making. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation, discussions, and a shared sense of civic engagement as the nation’s future began to take shape.

Students participating in the post election debate at the NHIOP

Still processing election results, the Kevin B. Harrington Student Ambassadors hosted a campus political debate on November 19, featuring a lively and respectful discussion between the College Democrats and College Republicans. Students Michael Katsikis ‘28 and Owen Bland ‘27 represented the College Democrats, while Mac Connors ‘25 and John Fitzpatrick ‘27 represented the College Republicans.

Moderated by Neil Levesque, with introductions by civic engagement co-chairs Jaime Woodaman ‘25 and Mario Ventresca ‘25, the debate tackled pressing issues such as climate change, immigration, and healthcare. The event encouraged civil discourse, allowing both shared values and differing perspectives to be explored.

December

As we look back on the semester, the Institute would like to express our gratitude to our student ambassadors for their dedicated behind-the-scenes efforts that make our events successful. Their hard work is essential to our mission of fostering democracy and civic engagement. With the 2024 general election behind us and a new administration preparing to take office, we anticipate an exciting start to the next chapter, especially during the first 100 days. We also appreciate the continued support from the college and the local community, which allows us to carry out our important work. Stay tuned for upcoming programming updates in the spring semester.

 

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