On Monday, we all headed to the Executive Council Chambers to participate in democracy and cast New Hampshire’s electoral votes. The process itself is mundane – involving a pile of paperwork, a few speeches, and a cloudy Monday morning, but the moment we cast four electoral votes – on behalf of all Granite Staters – for the next President of the United States, Joseph Biden, and the next Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris was one of the proudest of my lifetime.

We’re proud, because Monday’s gathering where we finalized Granite Staters’ votes for a peaceful transfer of power shows the importance of democracy, and that democracy works. Regardless of your party affiliation or who you voted for in November, the assembly of the Electoral College is a testament to the continual fortitude of our democracy. Our system – despite attacks from the highest levels – still works, it continues to withstand the test of time, and will continue to spread the light of freedom and justice so long as each American continues to support, defend, and believe in the promise of America.

We’re proud, because we were part of something historic. We were all struck with so much emotion when we cast our votes for Kamala Harris for Vice President of the United States – the first woman, the first African-American, and the first Indian-American to ever serve in that office. Her experience, raised by an immigrant mother, truly exemplifies the American Dream. Monday was a historic day for everyone in this country but especially for women. With Kamala Harris serving as our Vice President it is our hope that every little girl and every young woman regardless of the color of their skin will realize that in this country anything is possible and that they can aspire to greatness.

We’re proud, because this election wasn’t just about us or about people who care about politics – it was about every Granite Stater and saw record participation. Granite Staters voted in record numbers – at polling places and from home – overcoming logistical and health obstacles in the midst of a pandemic to ensure their voices were heard. Granite State veterans, who fought to defend our rights and freedom, voted in this election. LGBTQ+ Granite Staters, who are continuing their fight for equal rights, voted. People of color, who are marching to secure their basic human rights, voted. Working people, who are calling out for economic opportunity for all, voted. Young people voted. Old people voted. And on Monday, our electoral votes were cast for all Granite Staters, no matter their creed, their life experiences, their sexual orientation, or the color of their skin.

Monday was a truly historic day, and we thank all Granite Staters for entrusting us with this privilege of officially casting the Granite State’s four electoral votes for our next President and Vice President, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.

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