New Hampshire voters could reshape the presidential race in Tuesday's primary - latimes

New Hampshire voters could dramatically reshape the race for president on Tuesday, boosting insurgent candidates who have connected with a discontented electorate or providing a second wind to establishment figures struggling to build support.

New York businessman Donald Trump, whose scorched-earth speeches have captivated people disillusioned with politics, is positioned to win the Republican primary, according to all public polls, allowing him to rebound after a second-place finish in the Iowa caucuses.

But second place – and third place and fourth – is up for grabs in a state known for its large number of independent voters who can remain undecided right up until they approach the ballot box.

A strong showing by Florida Sen. Marco Rubio could reassure members of his party who were rattled by his uneven performance in Saturday night’s debate and help him sap support from rivals.

But a stumble by Rubio would revive the chances of Ohio Gov. John Kasich, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie or former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who have staked their campaigns on doing well in New Hampshire but have trailed in the polls.

On the Democratic side, Hillary Clinton has fought an uphill battle against Bernie Sanders, the senator from neighboring Vermont who has consistently held large leads in New Hampshire. The contest between the two – once expected to be a coronation for Clinton, the former secretary of State and the favorite for the Democratic establishment – has become increasingly tense since she eked out a narrow victory in the Iowa caucuses last week. - Read More at the latimes

New Hampshire voters could reshape the presidential race in Tuesday's primary