Next step for the US elections: New Hampshire caucuses | US elections 2024

The second stage of the process of selecting the Republican Party's nominee for President of the United States will begin on January 23 in New Hampshire.

The winner of the first caucuses, in the state of Iowa, was Donald Trump, who came in first place by more than 30% over second place. Two candidates withdrew from the race after the results were announced.

Voting in New Hampshire is expected to be more competitive.

What will the selection mechanism be?

One of the characteristics of elections in the United States is that each state has its own rules. In New Hampshire, primaries are determined by ballot.

The winner of this round will receive the votes of 22 delegates in the Electoral College—it is estimated that 1,215 delegates are needed to win the Republican primary.

Although New Hampshire does not have a large number of delegates, it is traditionally an important state for US elections because it is one of the first states to hold caucuses.

Who are the candidates in the race?

• Donald Trump, former President of the United States of America.
• Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida.
• Nikki Haley, former US Ambassador to the United Nations.

Donald Trump leads the polls. According to the 538 website, he should receive 43% of the votes. Nikki Haley comes in second with 30%, and DeSantis with 6%.

New Hampshire has a reputation for being a place with more moderate voters. In addition, the state's Republican primaries are open to voters registered with other parties. This tends to help politicians who are considered more centrist.

How important is this vote?

For most political analysts, this is Trump's opponents' best chance of defeating him.

Nikki Haley has gained some momentum in the state polls. If it does not perform well, Trump will increase his lead.