Coffee, conversation, and young people playing outdoors. Supporter Ginger Hankins hosted a different kind of "house party." As folks left, they remarked that it was wonderful to find a candidate who really listened and took the time to try and understand their experiences and perspectives.

Politics & Peaches was a reminder of what democracy should look like: people from all walks of life bringing their lived experience to the table and stepping up to lead. Carleigh shared the stage with two other congressional candidates and one who is considering a run.

2026 US Congressional Candidate Carleigh Beriont (D-NH) called into GMNH to talk about the crowded field in the 1st District, her beginnings and how she can win the nomination with a grassroots effort. 

To celebrate Independence Day Carleigh joined in festivities in Portsmouth and Merrimack, taking part in a naturalization ceremony at Strawbery Banke Meuseum and marching in the Merrimack 4th of July Parade. At the parade, people showed up for different reasons: the fire trucks, the clowns, the tradition, the community. Whatever brought them out, we were together. That mattered.

Right before 4th of July weekend kicked off, Carleigh joined Steve Marchand's show for a wide ranging conversation on how the federal government can be a partner in the affordability crisis, Trump's disastrous budget, and her plans for Independence day. Watch here

Carleigh met with voters in Exeter to hear what they wish politicians understood better about their experience and community. Participants talked about the challenge of defending public education and looking for something to feel hopeful about after Democratic losses in 2024.

On Wednesday Carleigh joined the Gilmanton Democratic Committee for her first "District Dialogue" where she asked participants, "what do you wish politicans understood better about your experience and community?" The result was a spirited and wide-ranging conversation, and people left with a better sense of how to talk to their neighbors about the issues that mattered most to them.

After one full day on the campaign trail, Carleigh annouced raising over $100,000 and earning 50 public endorsements from leaders across the First District! This is just the beginning.

Carleigh announced her campaign for Congress on Wednesday, not with a flashy photo-op or a fancy house party, but from the steps of the Hampton Town Hall because that's where people in her community go when they need help.