Dixville Notch, New Hampshire — The small town of Dixville Notch once again honored its unique Election Day tradition by casting the nation’s first votes at midnight, with results showing a symbolic tie between candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Known for its early voting ritual, Dixville Notch holds a special place in election history, marking the first tally of votes in every presidential election since 1960.
What is Dixville Notch’s Midnight Voting Tradition?
Dixville Notch, with a population of fewer than a dozen, is one of a few New Hampshire communities with a quirky tradition of voting as soon as Election Day begins, precisely at 12:00 a.m. Each registered voter gathers at The Balsams resort to cast their ballot, and within minutes, the votes are counted and reported. This practice reflects New Hampshire’s historic commitment to civic engagement and has turned Dixville Notch into a symbolic start to Election Day.
A Tie to Kick Off Election Day
In the early hours, the ballots revealed an even split between the candidates, with Harris and Trump each receiving two votes. While the Dixville Notch results are not statistically significant, they offer a ceremonial start to the day’s voting activities across the country and reflect the town’s dedication to its longstanding democratic tradition.
A Look Back at Dixville Notch’s Voting History
Dixville Notch’s midnight vote has often been viewed as a barometer of national sentiment, albeit a lighthearted one given the small number of voters. However, the town has historically leaned toward certain trends:
- In 2008, the town made headlines when it backed Barack Obama, marking a significant shift in its voting pattern.
- More recently, it has reflected mixed results, as in 2020, when it supported Joe Biden in a largely symbolic early tally.
The Significance of Midnight Voting in New Hampshire
Midnight voting is allowed under New Hampshire law, which permits towns with fewer than 100 residents to begin voting at the stroke of midnight. Dixville Notch’s early voting has become a media event, drawing attention each presidential election and celebrating the spirit of participation, a key principle in New Hampshire’s democratic values.
As Election Day continues, Dixville Notch’s early results may serve as a reminder of the enthusiasm and dedication with which many Americans approach their right to vote, regardless of the number of ballots cast.