Democratic candidates campaign hard in New Hampshire
One hopeful leaves while remainder rally support at the polls - NBC News' Jay Gray reports
MANCHESTER, N.H. (KYMA, KECY) - Democratic strategy is still unfolding in the final hours of voting in New Hampshire.
One of the national front runners decided to leave early, while most candidates are working right up to the time the polls close. They'll then wait to watch the results with their supporters.
It started before sunrise, and continued through the day. Polling places across New Hampshire looked more like pep rallies as voters gathered for the first-in-the-nation primary.
"It's pretty special. We get the first vote and the first voice on something that's very important to all of us." said voter Allen Halpern.
The closing hours are important for candidates as they try to gain momentum and votes.
"Something is happening here and we just want to seize the moment." said Senator Amy Klobuchar, (D) Minnesota.
"Feels good, i think we're going to have good night!" said former South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg.
"Thanks so much for being at the polls, it's so important." Senator Elizabeth Warren, (D) Massachussetts, told voters.
"We have a chance to do really well here tonight." said Senator Bernie Sanders, (I) Vermont.
Joe Biden was not as enthusiasic.
"We're still mildly hopeful here in New Hampshire."
Biden left the state before the polls closed. He's headed to South Carolina to campaign and watch the returns.
Even on the election day, many voters are still trying to make up their minds.
"A lot of the people I know are still coming in here today with a little uncertainty with who they're checking off . I got up in the booth and I made a decision right there, which is very rare for me." said voter Nicole Bump.
It's decision the candidates, and many across the country, are waiting for.
After Tuesday night the pace of the campaign will pick up dramatically. There are two debates, a caucus, and a primary election all crammed into the next three weeks.
KYMA.com will offer livestream coverage of the New Hampshire primary results throughout the night.
