Independence
The April 2025 Granite State Poll – NHExit report provides valuable insights into New Hampshire residents’ attitudes toward secession and independence. While the report indicates limited overall support for secession (only 12% support New Hampshire peacefully seceding), there are specific findings and demographic trends that can be leveraged to craft compelling arguments for advancing the independence agenda. Below are the top 10 arguments, grounded in the report’s data, designed to resonate with key groups and address potential concerns:
1. Appeal to Libertarian Values
- Data Point: Self-described libertarians show the highest support for both holding a vote (46% strongly or somewhat support) and for secession itself (significant support compared to other ideologies).
- Argument: New Hampshire’s strong libertarian streak, rooted in the “Live Free or Die” ethos, aligns with the idea of self-governance. Independence would allow the state to fully embrace individual liberty, free markets, and minimal government interference, free from federal overreach. Libertarians can be mobilized as a core base to champion this cause, emphasizing how secession would protect their values from federal policies they often oppose.
2. Highlight Support Among Newer Residents
- Data Point: Residents who have lived in New Hampshire for 20 years or less are more likely to support a vote on independence (e.g., 39% of those with 11-20 years support a vote) and secession itself.
- Argument: Many newer residents, particularly those drawn to New Hampshire for its low taxes and independent spirit, may feel less tied to the federal system. The independence movement can appeal to these “transplants” by framing secession as a way to preserve the state’s unique character against federal homogenization, emphasizing that New Hampshire could thrive as a sovereign entity.
3. Leverage Joe Rogan Listeners as a Vocal Advocacy Group
- Data Point: Listeners to the Joe Rogan Experience are significantly more likely to support both a vote (42% support) and secession (higher than the general population), and they are more aware of the 2022 secession amendment rejection (33% heard a lot or some).
- Argument: Joe Rogan’s audience, often skeptical of centralized authority and mainstream narratives, represents a culturally influential group. The independence movement can tap into this demographic through targeted media campaigns, podcasts, and social media, framing secession as a bold, anti-establishment move to reclaim local control and resist federal bureaucracy.
4. Emphasize Federal Debt as a Catalyst
- Data Point: 26% of residents (and 16% of secession opponents) say a federal debt exceeding $50 trillion would make them more likely to support secession.
- Argument: The ballooning federal debt, projected to reach unsustainable levels, threatens New Hampshire’s economic stability through potential tax hikes or inflation. Independence would allow the state to manage its own finances, avoid federal fiscal mismanagement, and maintain its low-tax model, appealing to fiscally conservative and debt-concerned residents.
5. Frame Secession as a Response to Federal Overreach in Crises
- Data Point: 24% of residents (16% of secession opponents) would be more likely to support secession if a war broke out between the U.S. and a powerful foreign country.
- Argument: Federal decisions, such as entering costly or unpopular wars, could drag New Hampshire into conflicts against its interests. Independence would grant the state neutrality or the ability to chart its own foreign policy, protecting residents from being pawns in federal geopolitical games. This argument can resonate with anti-war sentiments and those wary of federal power during crises.
6. Capitalize on Support for a Referendum
- Data Point: 21% of residents support holding a vote to gauge interest in independence, a higher percentage than those who support secession outright (12%).
- Argument: Advocating for a non-binding referendum is a low-risk way to advance the independence agenda. It appeals to democratic principles, allowing residents to express their views without committing to secession. This could build momentum, especially among the 9% who are neutral, and create a platform for public debate, potentially shifting opinions over time.
7. Target Non-Voters and Independents
- Data Point: Those who did not vote in 2024 (higher support for a vote and secession) and self-identified Independents (29% support a vote) are more open to independence than other groups.
- Argument: Non-voters and Independents may feel alienated from the federal political system, viewing it as unresponsive or corrupt. The independence movement can position itself as an alternative to the status quo, offering a vision of local governance that prioritizes New Hampshire’s needs over partisan gridlock in Washington, D.C.
8. Highlight California Secession Support to Normalize the Concept
- Data Point: 32% of residents believe California should secede, and among those who support New Hampshire’s secession, 64% also support California’s secession.
- Argument: The idea of secession is not unique to New Hampshire, as many residents see it as viable for other states like California. This can normalize the concept, reducing the perception of New Hampshire’s independence as radical. The movement can argue that secession is a growing trend, with New Hampshire leading the way as a small, manageable state well-suited for self-governance.
9. Address Conservative Hesitation with a Strategic Pivot
- Data Point: Conservative support for secession has dropped significantly since 2023 (only 8% support a vote, down from 29%), but conservatives are more likely to want New Hampshire to join the U.S. if it were independent (77% definitely or probably).
- Argument: To win over conservatives, who value national unity, the independence movement can frame secession as a last resort to preserve New Hampshire’s conservative values against federal policies (e.g., gun control, high taxes, or cultural shifts). Emphasizing local control and constitutional protections can appeal to their skepticism of centralized power while addressing their loyalty to the U.S.
10. Build a Coalition Around Contingent Support
- Data Point: Among secession opponents, 8-16% would be more likely to support secession under specific conditions (e.g., another state seceding, a state constitutional amendment, or majority voter support).
- Argument: The movement can focus on building a broad coalition by addressing these contingencies. For example, advocating for a state constitutional amendment or highlighting other states’ secession movements could sway undecided or soft opponents. This incremental approach can gradually increase support by showing that secession is a reasoned response to specific triggers, not an impulsive act.
Strategic Considerations
To maximize the effectiveness of these arguments:
- Focus on Key Demographics: Prioritize libertarians, newer residents, Joe Rogan listeners, non-voters, and Independents as primary targets for outreach, using tailored messaging that resonates with their values and media consumption habits.
- Use Media Platforms: Leverage podcasts, social media, and local outlets like New Hampshire Public Radio (30% of listeners heard about the 2022 amendment) to spread the message and engage younger and less politically active residents.
- Emphasize Practicality: Address concerns about economic viability and governance by highlighting New Hampshire’s small size, strong economy, and history of self-reliance, drawing parallels to successful small nations like Switzerland or Singapore.
- Mitigate Opposition: Acknowledge the strong opposition (76% oppose secession) by focusing on a referendum as a first step, framing it as a democratic exercise rather than an immediate push for secession.
By combining these arguments with a strategic campaign, the NHExit movement can build momentum, even in the face of significant opposition, by appealing to New Hampshire’s unique culture and the specific concerns of its residents.
My friend Jeffrey Tucker of Brownstone posted this on X:
My heart truly goes out to @elonmusk. He bought this platform to counter censorship and it worked, fundamentally changing public culture just in time. He still doesn't get credit for that.
— Jeffrey A Tucker (@jeffreyatucker) May 21, 2025
He saw an existential threat from the then-existing regime and tried to make a…
I too feel empathy for Elon, but also, I have been warning mad dreamers about the trap of the Hell Mouth of DC, the Corrupt Capitol, for decades. I rightly gave up on reforming that sinking ship almost 20 years ago. Instead, I have thrown in my lot and life with the Free State of New Hampshire, the best option left for people who value the American spirit of:
Free speech
Color-blind equality
Meritocracy
Hard work
Individual responsibility
Here in New Hampshire, we have been quietly building our libertarian homeland. A place to seek refuge, yes, but mostly a place to come build the coolest future you can imagine.
We have it all: coastline and mountains, a deep sea port and an international border. We have quaint New England towns, mill buildings, and lakes. We have pristine Nature, and Nuclear. We have legalized flying cars and, last week, the world’s first Bitcoin Reserve Fund.
Article 10 of the NH Constitution enshrines the Right of Revolution. I have been pushing for peaceful secession for years, even introducing bills to this effect. If DC cannot be reformed (and I contend it cannot), then we have a duty to do better.
The Free State of New Hampshire is the answer.
As more people discover what Elon learned the hard way–the federal government is TOO IMMORAL and CORRUPT to fix, there are too many people on the take–we here in the Granite Gulch await you.
Come check us out: Our biggest party–a weeklong family-friendly camping experience (there are hotels around too)–where thousands gather, is coming up in June. Get your tixs today: porcfest (dot) com.
Live free or die; live free and thrive!
Carla Gericke, fresh from an appearance with Dr. Phil, just launched the NHExit movement. (Ep. 2529 of the Tom Woods Show)
Sponsors: Expat Money Summit: https://expatmoneysummit.com
Persist SEO: https://ineedseo.help
Guest’s Links: NHExit: https://nhexit.us
Support Carla’s state house run: https://secure.anedot.com/cgnh/2024
Show notes page: https://tomwoods.com/2529
Other Important Links:
http://www.SupportingListeners.com
http://www.LibertyClassroom.com
http://www.RonPaulHomeschool.com
http://www.NationalDivorce.com
Despite Dr. Phil’s Alarming Title, We Had An Awesome Conversation! Support NHExit Now!
Did you catch my debut on Dr Phil? pic.twitter.com/CmQ86F931Y
— Carla Gericke, Live Free And Thrive! (@CarlaGericke) August 1, 2024
You can sign up at NHExit Now!
Catch the shortened version here on YouTube, which has now been watched by almost half a million viewers!
Fans are asking where they can watch the Dr. Phil episode. You can catch a shortened version on YouTube HERE. Or click the last embedded X-post below to watch the full episode on Odysee. Please like, comment, and share. This is a BIG deal for the Free State independence movement. Thanks!
— Carla Gericke, Live Free And Thrive! (@CarlaGericke) July 30, 2024
Check out this comprehensive article about my upcoming appearance on the Dr. Phil Primetime show.
“Carla Gericke, who is running for the New Hampshire House of Representatives as a Republican while promoting the “NHExit Now” push for secession, will be featured on “Dr. Phil Primetime” alongside a Texas secessionist and other guests.
Gericke, who has also been a leader with the Free State Project — a group that aims to attract libertarian-minded movers to transform New Hampshire’s political identity — said she is working to promote the principles of liberty, self-determination, and the state’s unique heritage and values as the national debt skyrockets and the federal government keeps expanding.
“Being given the opportunity to discuss an amicable national divorce on a platform like Dr. Phil’s is a gift,” Gericke said in a statement. “As this movement reaches the mainstream, it is crucial for people to understand that while New Hampshire’s motto is ‘Live Free or Die,’ our movement is a peaceful one.”
Gericke emigrated to the United States from South Africa in 1996, moved from New York to New Hampshire in 2008, and became known by the Free State Project as “Queen Quill” for her subsequent leadership roles in a movement that has adopted the porcupine as its mascot. She won a federal court case on appeal in 2014 affirming a right to record police during a traffic stop, and she was named that year among New Hampshire Magazine’s “Remarkable Women.””
This headline for a video extolling the Deep State dropped on the NYT website yesterday… the same day the New York Attorney General called for the seizing of Trump’s assets.
I doubt you get more Banana Republic than that!
Never have I been happier with my DECISION to move to the Free State fifteen years ago (hey, I’m an early adopter!) and build the future I want, which does not involve these Permanent DC clowns.
Even in little old NH, there is plenty of “Deep State” activity on a local level, with entrenched political power groups, e.g. Unions and administrators, Municipal Association, etc.
BUT, NH is small enough in population size, and the legislature is large enough (400 House members representing about 3,300 constituents each) to allow an engaged citizenry to counteract the inertia that inevitably sets in when bureaucrats get and stay involved.
What’s life like where YOU live? Are YOU involved on a local level? Do YOU feel like you are able to make a difference? Is that locale trending towards more liberty?
Even in NH, with a large activist community, reversing statism can sometimes feel like a slog, so I can only imagine how hard it must be in the “Authoritarian 49,” as Dennis Pratt likes to call it.
But, here’s the reality: The Free State *is* trending towards more liberty. We ARE becoming freer. Our ideas are being debated and legislated. We ARE winning. The future looks bright. The only thing missing is YOU!
If you want a good quality of life.
If you want to live a solid libertarian community.
If you think you can run your life best and you don’t make bad decisions other people’s problems.
If you understand that YOU are responsible for YOUR life, and it’s up to YOU to be healthy, wealthy, and sane.
Then the Free State is for you.
Live free and thrive.
Live long and prosper.
Live in the Free State and do it all. All YOU CHOOSE to do!
Sign up for the FSP newsletter and let us know when you plan to visit so we can make it super-special!
Read the whole article HERE…
“Carla Gericke is acting president of the Foundation for New Hampshire Independence and a spokesperson for the Free State Project (FSP), a movement which encourages libertarian-leaning individuals to ‘move to New Hampshire for liberty.’
To join the FSP, which it claims more than 20,000 people have already done, individuals are required to ‘state my solemn intent to move to the State of New Hampshire’ then ‘exert the fullest practical effort toward the creation of a society in which the maximum role of civil government is the protection of individuals’ life, liberty and property.’
Justifying the policy, the FSP states: ‘By concentrating our numbers in a single state, we are maximizing our impact as activists, entrepreneurs, community builders, and thought leaders.’ While not all FSP activists support outright independence for the Granite State, Gericke certainly does, telling Newsweek: ‘It’s an idea whose time has come and a reflection of the frustration everyone on the political spectrum is feeling.’
On January 3, Representative Jason Gerhard, a Republican in the New Hampshire legislature, introduced a bill stating that should the federal debt ever reach $40 trillion, around $6 trillion more than at present, the state “shall declare independence and proceed as a sovereign nation.”
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