The Movement
Rather than building a national movement, the project's strategy is to concentrate supporters in one state where they can have greater influence over elections, legislation, and public policy.
Today, many of the movement's participants serve in the New Hampshire Legislature, local government, and advocacy organizations, making it one of the state's most organized political forces.
Why Are Free Staters Controversial?
Critics argue that the movement has had an outsized influence on New Hampshire politics and is working to fundamentally change the role of government in the state. They point to efforts to:
- Cut funding for public education while expanding school voucher programs
- Reduce business and other state taxes, shifting more of the burden onto local property taxpayers
- Roll back environmental regulations and public health protections
- Reduce funding for healthcare and other public services
- Override local control on issues like housing and zoning
- Advance legislation targeting LGBTQ+ rights, particularly transgender people
- Shrink state government by reducing agencies, programs, and regulations
Critics also argue that highly organized Free State activists have helped shift legislative priorities away from issues like affordable housing, healthcare costs, workforce shortages, and public education, toward ideological and culture-war legislation.
Supporters Say...
Supporters of the Free State Project argue they are simply exercising their right to participate in democracy. They believe lower taxes, smaller government, fewer regulations, and greater individual freedom make New Hampshire a better place to live and do business.
Why It Matters
Whether you support or oppose the Free State Project, its influence on New Hampshire politics is significant. Understanding which elected officials are aligned with the movement can help voters better understand the priorities and policies shaping the state's future.