WE’RE BUILDING THE BENCH
How 603 Forward is building power and engaging with candidates in 2026.
Election season is here, and we’re doubling down on what 603 Forward has always done best: building a pipeline of leaders and making sure Granite Staters know who’s stepping up to serve.
Federal races get lots of attention. But we know change happens at the local level in city councils, school boards, and at the State House. That’s where we’re focused.
Building the Pipeline
603 Forward was founded on the belief that New Hampshire needs more young and working-age people stepping up to lead. But building a new generation of leaders doesn’t happen overnight – leaders have to start somewhere.
Through our recruitment work and Run Club, we help aspiring candidates develop the skills, experience, and confidence they need to run for office and serve their communities.
We don’t think we should wait until election season comes around to go looking for the “perfect candidate.” We want to build a bench of leaders who are already prepared to step up when the opportunity comes.
Why Down-Ballot?
Our focus is on the races that too often get overlooked.
A school board member can shape education in their community. A city councilor can shape housing and development. A selectboard can shape the future of a town. State legislators make decisions that affect all of us.
Local and state elected officials have real power to shape our communities. We want to make sure the next generation is ready to use it.
Who We Highlight
603 Forward will highlight working-age candidates, generally those 55 and under, for local and state office who bring new energy to public service and are working to move their communities forward.
When we highlight candidates and change-makers, we look for leaders who are grounded in community, solutions, and inclusion. A few things we look for:
Community connection: Candidates who are rooted in their communities, listening to neighbors, and bringing people together to solve problems.
Forward-looking leadership: Those offering practical ideas to move New Hampshire forward on issues like housing, affordability, democracy, and opportunity.
Representation and new voices: Young leaders, first-time candidates, and people from underrepresented communities stepping up to serve.
Values-driven public service: Folks leading with integrity, transparency, and a focus on improving everyday life for their community.
Collaboration and problem-solving: People who build coalitions and work across divides to get things done.
Engagement with younger generations: Candidates who care about the issues shaping our future – from housing and jobs to climate and civic participation.
Our Role in 2026
603 Forward will highlight working-age candidates for state office who are rooted in their communities, bringing new voices to public service, and offering practical ideas for moving New Hampshire forward.
Through candidate spotlights and election coverage, we’ll help Granite Staters get to know the people stepping up to serve.
And while 603 Forward does not formally endorse candidates, our political action committee, Next Generation Leaders NH, may recommend eligible Run Club members to voters.
In short: 603 Forward highlights the leaders stepping up. Next Generation Leaders NH recommends leaders ready to get off the bench, and works to help them get elected.
