Red Arrow Diner Joins the 50 Years of HB 73 Celebration
On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Red Arrow Diner proudly joined a historic gathering at the New Hampshire State House to celebrate 50 years of HB 73 – the landmark law that protects New Hampshire’s First-in-the-Nation Presidential Primary status.
Red Arrow’s Co-Owner Amanda Wihby attended the celebration after receiving a personal invitation from Chris Ager, head of the New Hampshire Republican State Committee. Manchester’s General Manager Jamie McKenzie attended with Amanda. The event, sponsored by the First-in-the-Nation Presidential Primary Committee, brought together distinguished guests to reflect on the Granite State’s unique role in the American political process.
The 50 years of HB 73 ceremony featured speeches from New Hampshire Secretaries of State David Scanlan and Bill Gardner (1976–2022), as well as Former State Senator and Representative Jim Splaine, who sponsored HB 73. These leaders shared how the 1975 law, signed by Governor Mel Thomson, became a crucial defense of New Hampshire’s place at the front of the presidential nominating calendar.
“New Hampshire will continue to be first as long as we continue to follow the tradition that we’ve had, really, for a hundred years,” said Splaine.
Without HB 73, the early political landscape could have looked quite different, as other New England states vied for the top spot. Instead, New Hampshire’s primary has become a launchpad for political careers, including the rise of Jimmy Carter and the momentum behind Donald Trump.
Governor Kelly Ayotte also addressed the audience, emphasizing that the primary transcends political affiliation. She said, “This is not about Democrats or Republicans. This is about doing the right thing for the country. Because when you come into New Hampshire and you campaign – we’ve all seen it – you actually have to talk to people.”
The 50 years of HB 73 ceremony took place at the Executive Council Chambers inside the State House — fitting for an event steeped in New Hampshire’s enduring commitment to grassroots politics.
“It’s democracy at its best,” Splaine concluded.
Red Arrow Diner: A Front-Row Seat to Democracy
For more than 100 years, Red Arrow Diner has been a proud part of New Hampshire’s tradition of accessibility and civic engagement. Welcoming candidates across the political spectrum, Red Arrow Diner locations have become iconic stops where real conversations happen and where voters can meet the leaders who seek their support.
The Red Arrow Diner maintains a neutral stance in politics, providing a welcoming environment where all voices are heard. We are honored to have been part of this meaningful celebration of 50 years of HB 73 and remain committed to offering a front-row seat to democracy New Hampshire-style.