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New Hampshire

Betty made two visits to electorally significant state of New Hampshire before its primary election on 24th February. This vote would be the first major hurdle for Ford to navigate on his path to re-election.

Learn more about New Hampshire primaries here!

7th and 8th February 1976

Salem, Rockingham County

To begin her visit, Betty's first stop was Salem. She visited Old Town Hall on 7th February. She viewed a senior citizens programme and a children's recreation programme.

Nashua, Hillsborough County

Betty visited Nashua High School on 7th February and attended a dinner for the Nashua Chamber of Commerce. She also visited the Ford Committee headquarters there.

Concord, Merrimack County

Betty and Gerald visited Concord on 8th February. They toured Rundlett Junior High School and attended a reception for President Ford Committee volunteers and their families.

Durham, Strafford County

The Ford's visited the University of New Hampshire in Durham on the 8th. They spoke to a crowd of 3500 students. Newspapers reported Betty receiving a louder applause than Gerald.

19th and 20th February 1976

Betty's second visit was part of a final push before the primary on 24th February. Betty visited the town of Keene on the 19th, and Dover and Portsmouth the following day. Betty held meetings at Keene High School, Harper Acres Retirement Home and attended another reception to meet and greet her husband's campaign volunteers.

Together, the President and First Lady visited Newington Shopping Mall, Dover High School, the President Ford Committee Storefront Center in Dover and Portsmouth Rehabilitation Center in Portsmouth. Along the way, they greeted local people and gave interviews with New Hampshire radio and television stations.

Billings Gazette, 11 February 1976

"Everybody in here is talking about her. They're so impressed with her ease, her gentleness and her softness."