Which Republican Won New Hampshire?
Mark Halperin analyzes the substance, style, and overall impact of the speakers at the First in the Nation Republican Leadership Summit.
U.S. Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) speaks at the First in the Nation Republican Leadership Summit April 18, 2015 in Nashua, New Hampshire.
Photographer: Darren McCollester/Getty ImagesThis article is for subscribers only.
Republican candidates and potential candidates—17 in all—were in New Hampshire over the weekend to speak to voters at the “First in the Nation Republican Leadership Summit.” The event’s name refers to the state’s status as the home of the first presidential primary every four years.
Style: More confident and focused than even in his well-received announcement speech. Led off with a string of jokes about Clinton, kids, and campaigns. Then turned earnest, keeping the crowd hushed and largely rapt, culminating with a resounding, sustained standing ovation.