| The Porcupine Post Newsletter Sunday, March 8, 2026 |
 Would that really be so bad? |
| Hon. Eric Brakey Free State Project, Executive Director |
| I am still catching my breath, but……here are a few things we are reporting on in this week’s Porcupine Post: NH Liberty Forum 2026 — Hundreds of thinkers and doers gathered this weekend to discuss how to build freedom. Watch for a full overview next week. In the meantime, listen to my “2026 State of the Free State” remarks. PorcFest XXIII — At LF26, Carla Gericke announced the next evolution of PorcFest. Learn more and grab early-bird tickets. A Porcupine Patron Update — Thank you to the 295 Porcupine Patrons that fund our year-round mission. Can you help us reach 300? Become a patron! These weekly FSP newsletters are often long because a lot is happening in the Free State. Treat it like a Sunday paper and skip ahead to whatever interests you. PLEASE NOTE: Some email service providers (including Gmail) regularly cut these newsletters short. Be sure to click “View Entire Message” at the bottom to read the full Porcupine Post! |
| The 2026 State of the Free State: “A Culture of Libertarian Achievement” |
| Liberty Forum brought together hundreds of builders, thinkers, and activists to share strategies for expanding liberty in our lifetimes. After this successful marathon of a weekend at the 2026 New Hampshire Liberty Forum, I hope you don’t mind if I take a moment to catch my breath.In next week’s newsletter, we will have a full overview of the conference for freedom builders — as we were excited to welcome Tom Woods, Matt Kibbe, Mike Sertic, and many more.We will shortly begin processing and publishing video from the conference to our social media and in this newsletter. Be sure to watch in the weeks ahead. In the meantime, I thought I would share a recording from the audience of my “State of the Free State” remarks. In this year’s “State of the Free State,” I reflect on how the Free State Project turned a scattered remnant of liberty lovers into a growing force for freedom in New Hampshire. And I share why the next chapter depends on continuing to build a libertarian culture of achievement.(I don’t mean to brag, but several people told me afterward they had goosebumps. You should really listen.) |
| SIDE NOTE: You may have heard that Scott Horton was unable to join us. His presence was missed, but we did not skip a beat. We adapted the schedule seamlessly on Friday and threw in an unplanned panel discussion on strategies for Defend the Guard in New Hampshire.So that you know exactly what happened, Scott made every effort to be at Liberty Forum 2026 with us. When we booked him, we knew he had a very tight travel schedule due to existing commitments.He had to fly in and out during the same day. Of course, when you are dealing with airport travel, logistics don’t always work as you hope for. We look forward to having Scott back in New Hampshire — and we are already discussing PorcFest. |
| PorcFest: The Next Generation |
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| Yesterday at Liberty Forum, Carla Gericke announced this summer’s next evolution of PorcFest: a gathering that extends beyond a single campground. Read below for PorcFest details from Carla — and mark your calendar for June 21-28, 2026. |
| PORCFEST: THE NEXT GENERATIONYour Passport Across the Free StateFor more than two decades, people have come to New Hampshire for PorcFest to see what the Free State Project is all about. But during those same two decades, something else has been happening quietly across the Granite State.Free Staters have been building:Clubhouses.Farms.Businesses.Schools.Communities. Now it’s time to open the doors and welcome you in. From Summer Solstice, June 21 through June 28, 2026, PorcFest will take place across the Free State, with participating venues hosting programming throughout the week. Roger’s Campground will remain open for camping as always — for those who love the traditional experience. But now you can also explore the wider Free State: the different regions, the cities, the towns, the parks, and most importantly, the people who have chosen to build their lives here. Stay where you like. Travel the state. Pick the programming that excites you. Your PorcFest ticket becomes a passport across the Free State. Visit participating venues, get your passport stamped, and you’ll be eligible for sponsor-funded prizes. Instead of a centralized event, PorcFest XXIII will be a tour of what we’ve built in the Free State — and an invitation for more builders to join us.  Tickets are on sale now. Go to fsp.org/PorcFestAs a special thank-you to our early supporters, use code FREESTATER through Tuesday to get $25 off your ticket. Adult tickets are $75, and kids attend free with a ticketed adult. Come see what two decades of building liberty actually looks like. PorcFest: The Next Generation June 21–28, 2026 We’ll see you across New Hampshire. Confirmed Participating Venues: The Domes, Independence Inn, Latitude Learning, The Prickle, The Quill, Rooted Free, The Wearehouse. More announcements coming soon. Think of it as the HUB model from recent PorcFests, but zoomed out — from a map of Roger’s Campground to a map of the entire state. Each venue will host its own programming throughout the week. Attendees can choose what catches their interest each day, travel between venues, and explore the Free State while earning passport stamps toward prize eligibility. To preserve the sense of UNITY that has always made PorcFest special, everyone is invited to gather Saturday, June 28, 2026, on the field at Roger’s for the traditional group photo and the drawing of prizes. (Must be present to win.) Use promo code FREESTATER today for the insider track to PORCFEST: THE NEXT GENERATION. Claim your pioneer status now. Go to fsp.org/PorcFest! |
| Be sure to check our new FSP introduction video: “Live Free or Die — Start your Journey with the Free State Project.” Thank you to FSP Video Strategist Reinita Susman. |
| Thank you to our Porcupine Patrons! |
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| If you believe in our mission to build a liberty homeland in New Hampshire, I’d like to ask you to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project. For just $10/month, you can support our year-round efforts to build “Liberty in Our Lifetime.” Additionally, you will receive exclusive patron benefits, including our quarterly print newsletter, access to our private Signal group, and perks at all FSP events. We’re 5 patrons away from 300. Will you be one of them? If you’ve ever thought about becoming a $10/month Porcupine Patron (or at a higher tier), this is the week I’d be especially grateful if you did. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donations to the Free State Project are tax-deductible. We welcome donations in dollars, cryptocurrency, and other forms. Can I count you in as a Porcupine Patron? |
 Porcupine Patron Pin. In addition to other fantastic benefits, every Porcupine Patron of the Free State Project receives this “Porcupine Patron Pin.” These pins are not just for show! Patron pins grant access to exclusive FSP event perks, including VIP rooms, patron-only events, and courtesy drink tickets. Click here to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project. |
| It is my honor to serve as Executive Director of the FSP.Please read on for more of our weekly newsletter from the Free State, prepared with assistance from our Communications Director, Mahgdalen Rose. For Liberty! Hon. Eric Brakey Executive Director Free State Project |
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| MARK YOUR CALENDAR! |
| Join In for Upcoming Events at the SHELL! The SHELL Liberty Clubhouse in the New Hampshire Seacoast hosts regular events for Free State community building. Visiting the SHELL for the first time? Don’t get lost. Click here for directions to find the SHELL. |
| Recurring Free State Events New Mover Potluck Parties! Manchester – First Friday Upper Valley – First Saturday Seacoast – Third Sunday North Country – Third Saturday Local Meetups! Bedford – Weekly, Tuesdays Plymouth – Semi-monthly, second and fourth Wednesdays Seacoast – Weekly, Thursdays (changes town) Upper Valley – Monthly, fourth Tuesday Nashua – Weekly, Sundays Gilford – Monthly, third Saturday Ossipee – Semi-monthly, second Sunday and third Tuesday Madison – Monthly, second Saturday Grafton – Monthly, second Saturday Keene – Weekly, Sundays This is only a small sample of what’s going on in the Free State! Recurring topical events include agorism, family play time, range shooting, and crypto. Recurring topical events include agorism, family play time, range shooting, and crypto. Find upcoming events across the state on our NH Liberty Calendar. |
| Free State Voices |
| Porcupine Report #102: “Plan Your Relocation” with Adam McGuire Eric builds excitement for the 2026 New Hampshire Liberty Forum and sits down with recent mover Adam McGuire to talk about turning liberty dreams into a concrete relocation plan. Adam shares how COVID lockdowns in Maine pushed his family to seek greater freedom in New Hampshire—and why he believes more liberty-minded Americans don’t have 20 years to make the move.The conversation dives into the practical and psychological hurdles of relocating, the importance of community fit, and Adam’s new “Porc-U Plan” designed to help prospective movers create a step-by-step path to the Free State. They also explore the growing influence of Free Staters in New Hampshire politics and even float the bold idea of northern Maine joining a “Greater New Hampshire.” If you’ve ever wondered what it would really take to move to the Free State—and why now might be the time—this episode is for you. Click to watch the full episode. |
| The Granite Discourse Live from the 2026 NH Liberty Forum. Click to watch the full stream! |
| Liberty Forum with Free State Acoustics with Keith Bessette, Carol Pratt, and Dennis Pratt. Click to watch. |
 Have you ordered your copy yet?FSP Director Eric Brakey published his first book — a pithy door-knocking guide of 13 rules for liberty candidates running for local office. This is a must-have for anyone who wants to win at the door.All proceeds benefit the Free State Project. Click here to order a copy on Amazon. |
| Concord Monitor: Free Staters convene at Liberty Forum in Concord InDepthNH: Protesters Rally Against Free State Project National Today: NH Liberty Forum 2026 Returns to Concord The National Law Review: 2026 NH Liberty Forum to Host U.S. Senate Candidates Scott Brown and Aaron Day NHPR: NH National Guard activated in connection with Iran war WMUR 9: Milder temperatures expected across New Hampshire this week; highs in 60s Tuesday NHPR: In this small New Hampshire town, you can still be elected to these 17th-century jobs WMUR 9: Portsmouth exhibit celebrates women trailblazers in New Hampshire NHPR: The Big Question: What’s an experience you’ve had that best represents town meetings in New Hampshire? |
| As Seen in the Free State |
 Dinner at Siam Orchid Thai w Michael Granger |
 Defend the guard! |
 Moritomo and the NH State House |
 Protest at the State House! |
| Upcoming Events |
| The Porcupine Post Newsletter Sunday, March 1, 2026 |
Hon. Eric Brakey – Free State Project, Executive Director
| War. Inflation. Tyranny. Is it just me, or is it getting crazy out there? In uncertain times, serious people gather to build durable institutions. Thankfully, freedom builders are gathering in Concord this week — only 4 days away — at the 2026 New Hampshire Liberty Forum (LF26). Will you be in the room? Here are a few things we are reporting on in this week’s Porcupine Post: U.S. Senate candidates to address Free Staters at LF26 — Republican Scott Brown and Independent Aaron Day will speak to NH Liberty Forum attendees on Saturday afternoon. As War Ignites, Build Freedom from the War Machine — Immediately following the launch of an undeclared regime change against Iran, Scott Horton and Sgt. Dan McKnight will speak at Liberty Forum about effective strategies, like Defend the Guard, to build freedom and a future for peace. Tom Woods to Speak at LF26 VIP Dinner — If you already have a General Admission ticket, you can purchase a VIP Upgrade to attend the dinner. A Porcupine Patron Update — Thank you to the 294 Porcupine Patrons that fund our year-round mission. Can you help us reach 300? Become a patron! These weekly FSP newsletters are often long because a lot is happening in the Free State. Treat it like a Sunday paper and skip ahead to whatever interests you.PLEASE NOTE: Some email service providers (including Gmail) regularly cut these newsletters short. Be sure to click “View Entire Message” at the bottom to read the full Porcupine Post! |
| US Senate Candidates Make their Case at Liberty Forum 2026 |
| On Saturday afternoon, from 1:30-2:30 PM, NH Liberty Forum attendees will have the opportunity to hear from and ask questions of two New Hampshire candidates for the United States Senate.Republican Scott Brown and Independent Aaron Day are both sponsoring the event and addressing those in attendance during a U.S. Senate Candidate Forum that I will be personally moderating. |
 Scott Brown is a New Hampshire native, U.S. Army National Guard Colonel (ret.), former U.S. Senator, and Ambassador who is currently running as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in New Hampshire in 2026. With nearly 40 years of military service—including a deployment to Afghanistan—Brown rose to national prominence in 2010 by winning a special election in Massachusetts, becoming the first Republican U.S. Senator from the state in nearly 40 years. He later served as U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa (2017–2020) under President Trump. |
 Aaron Day is a serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, and political disruptor who is currently running for the U.S. Senate in New Hampshire in 2026. With three decades building decentralized systems in e-commerce, healthcare, blockchain, AI, and clean technology that make technocracy obsolete, Day authored the best-selling book The Final Countdown, exposing the threat of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) to freedom and financial sovereignty. A Free Stater since 2009, he previously served as Chairman of the Free State Project, the Republican Liberty Caucus of New Hampshire, and now leads the Daylight Freedom Foundation as its Chairman and CEO. |
| It is a good sign for the growth of our movement that candidates for office come to our FSP events to listen to Free Staters and speak to liberty issues that matter.Free Staters are now recognized as an influential bloc of independent-minded swing voters in both NH Republican primaries and general elections.Invitations for this U.S. Senate Candidate Forum have also been sent to the campaigns of John Sununu (Republican) and Chris Pappas (Democrat).Sununu has declined, citing prior scheduling commitments and expressing interest in attending a future FSP event. We have not yet received a reply from Pappas. |
| Amidst Undeclared Wars, Defend the Guard! |
| On the Porcupine Report this week, I welcomed Sgt. Dan McKnight to discuss the state of the Defend the Guard effort in New Hampshire and other states.It is regrettable that all 8 NH Senators on the Senate Finance committee are attempting to kill this bill, but advocates for a constitutional foreign policy continue advancing the ball to a Senate roll call vote this session. |
| Porcupine Report #101: “8 NH Senators Won’t Defend the Guard” with Dan McKnightIn this episode of The Porcupine Report, Eric is joined by Dan McKnight to break down the latest showdown over Defend the Guard in New Hampshire—and what it means for the future of the movement nationwide. They unpack a tense Senate hearing, a lightning-fast committee vote, and why critics say the process revealed more about power and politics than constitutional duty. The conversation dives into war powers, state sovereignty, and why Defend the Guard continues to gain momentum across the country despite entrenched opposition. Dan also explains what comes next and why one state taking a stand could trigger a national shift. Click to watch the full episode. |
| With the Trump Administration launching a war against Iran and sudden reports that the NH National Guard has been activated, now is the time we must continue pursuing practical strategies to bring this war machine to a halt.Thanks to one of ours sponsors, Bring Our Troops Home, both Sgt. Dan McKnight and Scott Horton are delivering important remarks on matters of war and peace this Friday at Liberty Forum.Click here for tickets. |
| VIP Dinner Upgrades Available! |
| It has been thirteen years since Tom Woods last spoke at Liberty Forum. Back then, we were fresh off the Ron Paul Revolution and Bitcoin was a new idea.Since then, Tom Woods became one of the loudest voices against the COVID regime and his podcast, The Tom Woods Show, is one of the most popular liberty podcasts in the country. Even better, Tom is planning a move to the Free State of New Hampshire in the coming years.On Saturday, I look forward to welcoming him back to Liberty Forum for the Saturday Keynote VIP Dinner!If you already purchased a General Admission ticket and you want to join us for the VIP Keynote Dinner with Tom Woods, you can purchase a VIP upgrade. |
| Many Opportunities to Build Freedom at Liberty Forum 2026 |
| Throughout the conference, you can interact with our sponsors and exhibitors — as well as take advantage of the amenities we offer to families and VIP participants. In our Welcome Hall, participants will engage with sponsors and exhibitors who are actively building freedom in the real world. In our Childcare Room, parents will be able to hire adults and teens to care for their young children during the conference. (FSP events are always family-friendly!) In our VIP Lounge, enjoy refreshments and conversation in a quiet and relaxed setting. (This room is restricted to VIP ticket holders, FSP Patrons, and forum speakers.) In our Media Room, podcasters and social media creators will conduct interviews with speakers and forum participants. |
| Want to sponsor or exhibit? Act quickly! We still have limited opportunities open for sponsors and exhibitors. |
| NH Liberty Forum 2026 Porcupine Patron BenefitsPorcupine Patrons, All Levels: Receive complimentary access to the VIP Lounge (when wearing your Porcupine Patron Pin). Porcupine Patrons, Gold Level and Higher:You may redeem 2 complimentary tickets to Liberty Forum 2026. Reply to this email so we can confirm your patron status and register you for your tickets. Not a Patron yet?Why not? Join our Porcupine Patron program today! |
| Be sure to check our new FSP introduction video: “Live Free or Die — Start your Journey with the Free State Project.” Thank you to FSP Video Strategist Reinita Susman. |
| Thank you to our Porcupine Patrons! |
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| If you believe in our mission for a liberty homeland in New Hampshire, I’d like to ask you to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project. For just $10/month, you can support our year-round efforts to build “Liberty in Our Lifetime.” Additionally, you will receive exclusive patron benefits, including our quarterly print newsletter, access to our private Signal group, and perks at all FSP events. We’re 6 patrons away from 300. Will you be one of them? If you’ve ever thought about becoming a $10/month Porcupine Patron (or at a higher tier), this is the week I’d be especially grateful if you did. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donations to the Free State Project are tax-deductible. We welcome donations in dollars, cryptocurrency, and other forms.Can I count you in as a Porcupine Patron? |
| Porcupine Patron Pin. In addition to other fantastic benefits, every Porcupine Patron of the Free State Project receives this “Porcupine Patron Pin.” These pins are not just for show! Patron pins grant access to exclusive FSP event perks, including VIP rooms, patron-only events, and courtesy drink tickets. Click here to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project. |
| It is my honor to serve as Executive Director of the FSP.Please read on for more of our weekly newsletter from the Free State, prepared with assistance from our Communications Director, Mahgdalen Rose. For Liberty! Hon. Eric Brakey Executive Director Free State Project |
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| MARK YOUR CALENDAR! |
| Join In for Upcoming Events at the SHELL!The SHELL Liberty Clubhouse in the New Hampshire Seacoast hosts regular events for Free State community building. Visiting the SHELL for the first time? Don’t get lost. Click here for directions to find the SHELL. |
| Recurring Free State EventsNew Mover Potluck Parties! Manchester – First FridayUpper Valley – First SaturdaySeacoast – Third Sunday North Country – Third SaturdayLocal Meetups!Bedford – Weekly, TuesdaysPlymouth – Semi-monthly, second and fourth WednesdaysSeacoast – Weekly, Thursdays (changes town) Upper Valley – Monthly, fourth TuesdayNashua – Weekly, SundaysGilford – Monthly, third Saturday Ossipee – Semi-monthly, second Sunday and third Tuesday Madison – Monthly, second Saturday Grafton – Monthly, second SaturdayKeene – Weekly, SundaysThis is only a small sample of what’s going on in the Free State! Recurring topical events include agorism, family play time, range shooting, and crypto.Find upcoming events across the state on our NH Liberty Calendar. |
| Free State Voices |
| The Independents: “Government vs. Parents? Vaccine Mandates, Homeschool Freedom & the Liberty Line” with Melissa Blasek. Carla Gericke sits down with Melissa Blasek, Executive Director of RebuildNH and former Merrimack State Representative, to discuss two major liberty flashpoints in New Hampshire: (1) a bill to repeal all childhood vaccine mandates for school and daycare attendance, making immunization purely voluntary, and (2) the Home Education Freedom Act – A sweeping proposal to deregulate homeschooling by eliminating mandatory state notifications, annual evaluations, and portfolio requirements. Click to watch the full episode. |
| Tom Woods is coming to NH Liberty Forum! In a recent episode of his popular podcast, Tom Woods promotes his upcoming appearance as our Saturday VIP Dinner keynote speaker. Click to watch. |
| The Independents (After Hours): The Rothschild EditionCarla Gericke is joined by Daniel Rothschild, Freestater and author of The Economics of Bureaucracy: An Academic View of Why Government Sucks, with foreword by Walter Block. Join us now to hear Daniel’s mover story, and his “whatevers.” Click to watch the full episode. |
| “Live Free or Die… in 96 Seconds.” On the Bring Our Troops Home podcast, Sgt. Dan McKnight breaks down what happened in the NH Senate Finance Committee hearing on Defend the Guard and responds to testimony, including remarks made by Rep. Tom Mannion. Eric Brakey, and the Adjutant General of the NH National Guard. Click here to watch the full episode. |
| Have you ordered your copy yet?FSP Director Eric Brakey published his first book — a pithy door-knocking guide of 13 rules for liberty candidates running for local office. This is a must-have for anyone who wants to win at the door.All proceeds benefit the Free State Project.Click here to order a copy on Amazon. |
| Boston.com: N.H. House advances bill targeting ‘indoctrination’ in public schoolsValley News: Tuk Tuk Thai Cuisine set to relocate Hanover restaurantWMUR 9: Viewers’ Choice 2026: Best vegetarian-friendly restaurants in New HampshireNew Hampshire Bulletin: Bill seeks to address abuse and neglect in New Hampshire’s disability care systemnhpr: ‘Zombie’ home vacancy rate in NH among lowest in the U.S. |
| As Seen in the Free State |
 Conference Book Designed. Miranda Animus report in from a local Dover cafe on hour 6 of designing and laying out for print the conference book for NH Liberty Forum 2026. |
 Many Hand Make Light Work! Two dozen volunteers got to work, stuffing conference bags with swag from sponsors and exhibitors. |
 Conference Bags Ready! In less than an hour, volunteers stuffed over 300 bags for the upcoming NH Liberty Forum. |
 Spotted in the wild! Photo courtesy of Javier Ortiz |
 A snowy walk in Dover! Photo credit: Eric Brakey |
| Some Upcoming Events |
| Monday, March 2ndLondonderry, 6pm-8 – Liberty & Cigar Meetup – Come on up for liberty and cigars monthly meetup! Hosted by Sarah Faber. (Twins Smoke Shop & 7-20-4 Lounge, 80 Perkins Rd, Londonderry) Strafford, 6pm-9 – Inside NH Liberty Forum (Big Liberty Ideas) – The NH Liberty Forum kicks off this week (Thu-Sun), and we’ll get the inside scoop of the Main Stage Presentations, the Living Liberty Breakouts, and the hair-raising logistics behind producing New Hampshire’s biggest liberty event of the year. Hosted by Dennis Pratt. (Independence Inn, 6 Drake Hl Rd, Strafford) Tuesday, March 3rdSeabrook, 8am-9 – Weekly Patriot Breakfast – A weekly social meeting of NH Patriots, think traditional Constitutional Republican. Hosted by Jude. (Linda’s Breakfast & Lunch Place, 920 Lafayette Road, Seabrook) Bedford, 4pm-8 – Taproom Tuesday at Murphy’s Carriage House – Come meet fellow liberty lovers at our weekly event! $5 drafts & wine and $10 cocktails & appetizers all night! Please invite others! Hosted by Bill & Gail. (Murphy’s Taproom & Carriage House, 393 State Rte 101, Bedford) Wednesday, March 4thLancaster, 8:30am-10:30 – North Country US History Class – Geared toward teenagers & adults, this United States History is a full survey course designed to help students think critically about history, engage with primary sources, and develop strong historical arguments. Free for The ‘Pine members ($5 donation for non-members). Course taught by NH State Rep Calvin Beaulier. (the Pine, 70 Main St, Lancaster) Plymouth, 6pm-8:30 – Pemi Valley Porcupines – Come on over and join us liberty lovers for dinner and conversation at our semi-monthly event. Hosted by Aubrey Freedman. (Last Chair Brewery & Restaurant, 5 NH-25, Plymouth) YouTube 7pm-8 – FSP Porcupine Report – Free State Project Executive Director Eric Brakey sits down every week to interview the movers and shakers of New Hampshire. Join us on YouTube! Hosted by Eric Brakey. Rollinsford, 7pm-10 – Game Night – You’re invited! We’re playing games. Hosted by Stephen Nass. (the SHELL, 3 Front St, Rollinsford) Thursday, March 5thConcord, 3pm-4:30 – State House Tour – For those arriving early on Thursday, join us for a tour of the New Hampshire State House! We’ll meet in the lobby/hall of flags. Tour led by Rep. Dan McGuire. (NH State House, 107 North Main Street, Concord) Concord, 6pm-8 – Liberty Forum Welcome Reception – For those in attendance on Thursday evening, we will be hosting a Welcome Reception in the Constitution Room, just off the lobby of the Courtyard by Marriott Concord hotel, attached to the Grappone Conference Center. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served. Cash bar open. Sponsored by FSBDAC & Chainstone Labs. (Grappone Conference Center, 70 Constitution Ave, Concord) Dover, 6pm-8 – Dover Liberty Outreach Meetup – Are you tired of big government? Just want to live free? You’ll be in good company at our weekly liberty meetups every Thursday night. The goal of these meetups is to provide a place for those interested in the philosophy of liberty to learn more and get involved in our vibrant community of families, entrepreneurs, and activists. Hosted by Sarah Scott. (Thirsty Moose Tap House, 83 Washington St, Dover) Manchester, 6pm-11 – Arts & Crafts Club – Come join our weekly Art/crafting club! Bring your current project or just to hang out and talk to other makers. Byob and snacks to share if you like! We’ll be in the kids room during the volunteer party. Hosted by Lady Jane. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester) Friday, March 6thConcord, 7am-6pm – New Hampshire Liberty Forum Day Two – This is your chance to collaborate with thought leaders and activists to create the change you’ve been waiting for. New Hampshire Liberty Forum 2026 is the place to make connections, share ideas, and take meaningful steps toward a more liberty-driven future. Get your tickets ASAP! Hosted by the Free State Project. (Grappone Conference Center, 70 Constitution Ave, Concord) Manchester, 7pm-10 – New Mover Potluck – All liberty lovers are invited to come on down to welcome our newest movers. Join us as we welcome home movers old and new to the largest and longest running monthly event in New Hampshire. New movers eat free! Hosted by the Quill. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester) Saturday, March 7thConcord, 7am-6pm – New Hampshire Liberty Forum Day Three – This is your chance to collaborate with thought leaders and activists to create the change you’ve been waiting for. New Hampshire Liberty Forum 2026 is the place to make connections, share ideas, and take meaningful steps toward a more liberty-driven future. Get your tickets ASAP! Hosted by the Free State Project. (Grappone Conference Center, 70 Constitution Ave, Concord) Croydon, 5pm-9 – Bardo Potluck & Upper Valley New Mover Party – Join the Bardo crew, friends and neighbors for an evening of socializing and good food. Potluck dinner is at 5pm, please bring a dish to share. Hosted by Emily Smith. (Bardo Farm, 92 Forehand Rd, Croydon) Sunday, March 8thManchester, 10am-12pm – New Hampshire Liberty Forum Day Four – Close out Liberty Forum in style at a relaxed and elegant Sunday brunch at The Quill, sponsored by Independence Realty Group. Join fellow attendees for great food, meaningful conversation, and one last opportunity to connect before heading home. Seating is limited. Hosted by Chris Lopez. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester) Ossipee, 12pm-2 – Ossipee Porcupines Meetup – Come meet your neighbors at Harley Jacks for lunch with mountain views. We’ll be sharing how we’re living free and what practical efforts we want to try to keep increasing liberty in the east of the Free State! Hosted by Tim Bauman. (Harley Jacks Burgers & Brews, 1020 NH-16, Ossipee) Concord, 12pm-8 – The Agora – “The Agora” is an event where folks are free to voluntarily trade and barter, host workshops, presentations, listen to music, play games, or just socialize with their community. Think of this as a community coming together to break bread much like a family would, because ultimately we are one big liberty family! Hosted by Dylan. (the Prickle, 74 Curtisville Rd, Concord) Candia, 1:15pm-3:15 – The Gruck a.k.a. Garnet Ruck – GRUCK: Granite Ruck. Rucking is the act of walking with weight on your back. It’s a low impact exercise based on military training workouts that improves cardio, strength, endurance, and character. This is a challenge by choice event, go as heavy or as far as you’re enthusiastic about. Whether you come for camaraderie or to test your mettle, as long as you come in peace, you’re welcome! Hosted by Michael Rohan. (Garnet School, 456 Critchett Rd, Candia) Manchester, 2pm-4 – Ice Skating – A family friendly public skating event. Only $5 per person! Hosted by Patrick. (JFK Memorial Coliseum, 303 Beech St, Manchester) Manchester, 5pm-7:30 – Manchester Crypto Meetup – We’re not trying to shill any coin, token, or project. We are a group of individuals and businesses in support of cryptocurrency and its everyday uses. Hosted by Matt Ping. (Strange Brew Tavern, 88 Market St, Manchester) Keene, 5pm-6 – Social Sunday – Enjoy the company of other liberty-loving people at NH’s longest-running activist social! Hosted by Chris Wade. (Local Burger, 82 Main St, Keene) Nashua, 6pm-8 – Nashua Liberty Social – Weekly Nashua Meet-Up – Location varies each week. This calendar event is typically updated by 2PM on Sunday. Meet-ups are generally within about a 10 minute drive of the downtown area. Hosted by Jeff Creem. |
| Remember that this is only a partial list.For all FSP events and more details on those highlighted here, be sure to check out the NH Liberty Calendar. |
| Hon. Eric Brakey Free State Project, Executive Director |
| We kick off in 11 days!This week’s newsletter is all about the 2026 New Hampshire Liberty Forum. I hope to meet you there.Hundreds of freedom builders will gather in Concord, NH to move liberty forward. Will you be in the room?(Don’t wait. Use code PorcPost to save 5%.) Here are a few things we are reporting on in this week’s Porcupine Post:Tom Woods & Scott Horton to deliver keynote remarks at NH Liberty Forum 2026! — Both of these seasoned thinkers and practitioners of liberty will speak to strategies that actually work to restore liberty in our lifetimes. LF26 will Feature Talks, Panels, Workshops, and Dialogues for Building Freedom — Distinguished liberty builders (including Matt Kibbe, Jim Babka, Julia Cartwright, Jeremy Cordon, and Dr. Michael Ciampi) will discuss practical ways to overcome the obstacles on the road to a liberty-for-real society. VIP Pre-Registration Opens Tomorrow— VIP ticket holders: watch your inbox Monday. A Porcupine Patron Update — Thank you to the 292 Porcupine Patrons that fund our year-round mission. Can you help us reach 300? Become a patron!These weekly FSP newsletters are often long because a lot is happening in the Free State. Treat it like a Sunday paper and skip ahead to whatever interests you.PLEASE NOTE: Some email service providers (including Gmail) regularly cut these newsletters short. Be sure to click “View Entire Message” at the bottom to read the full Porcupine Post! |
| Tom Woods to Keynote Saturday LF26 VIP Dinner! |
| Tom Woods will be our Saturday VIP Dinner Keynote Speaker at the New Hampshire Liberty Forum 2026 (LF26)!Join us for an inspiring evening as Tom Woods — New York Times bestselling author, host of the hugely popular Tom Woods Show, and soon-to-be Free Stater — delivers the keynote remarks on the singular libertarian strategy that appears to be working here in New Hampshire.Please use discount code “PorcPost” to save 5% on your tickets for the 2026 NH Liberty Forum. |
| Tom Woods has been a significant intellectual influence for me since I joined the Ron Paul liberty movement fifteen years ago.His book “Meltdown” (2009) taught me all about the boom-bust business cycle (and why we should actually “End the Fed”). His book “Nullification” (2010) served as my personal handbook, throughout my years in the Maine Senate, for how to fight back against federal tyranny with the 10th Amendment.In fact, Tom Woods was the VIP Dinner Keynote Speaker at the 2013 New Hampshire Liberty Forum — the first one I ever attended.To wind back the clock, in 2013, NH Liberty Forum attendees were among the first to learn about the innovative new cryptocurrency called Bitcoin (then worth $13.30) from some of the leading techno-pioneers seeking to challenge the central bankers.His dinner remarks left a lasting impression on me.I can’t find video of that talk in our archives, but here’s a promo he recorded that year. |
| Watching that video reminded me how far our movement has come.He spoke to the comments of a statist legislator in 2013 who called Free Staters “the biggest threat to New Hampshire.”She even called for passing laws to “restrict the freedoms” of local people to create an “unwelcoming” environment and drive Free Staters away. Thirteen years later, there are more Free Staters than ever and NH is freer than ever.So tell me… who won that round?In case you didn’t know, Tom Woods isn’t just joining us for Liberty Forum this year — he’s moving to New Hampshire!After all the freedom building Free Staters have been doing in New Hampshire for the past generation, Tom Woods is planning his move with his family in the coming years.We discussed his love of New England on this week’s podcast. Catch him here first, then welcome Tom in person at Liberty Forum. |
| Porcupine Report #100: “Tom is Moving to New Hampshire!” with Tom WoodsOn this special 100th episode of the Porcupine Report, Eric welcomes back libertarian thinker and bestselling author Tom Woods for a wide-ranging, heartfelt conversation. Woods reflects on fatherhood, New England roots, and why there’s truly “no place like home”— especially when that home might be New Hampshire.Click to watch the full episode. |
| Scott Horton to Discuss War and Freedom at Friday Keynote! |
| Another good friend of the Free State is joining us for keynote remarks on Friday: Scott Horton (author of Provoked: How Washington Started the New Cold War with Russia and the Catastrophe in Ukraine).As New Hampshire leads the nation on Defend the Guard — advancing legislation to call home NH National Guard troops from undeclared foreign wars — Horton will address the forum on Friday on how state-level action can challenge the machinery of endless war. |
| Time Is Running Out! Grab your LF26 Tickets Today! |
| Seriously, please don’t wait.This week, we have to put in food orders for the delicious lunches (included with all tickets) — and the Saturday VIP Dinner with Tom Woods (included with VIP tickets).Please use discount code “PorcPost” to save 5% on your tickets for the 2026 NH Liberty Forum. |
 Last year’s NH Liberty Forum featured a Soho Forum Debate (moderated by Gene Epstein) between FSP Director Brakey and Andrew Heaton on the benefits of focusing political efforts on the state level, rather than the national level. |
| Engage with Freedom Builders! |
| Have you seen our full lineup of speakers this year? I have been working furiously all week to ensure our website is fully updated with details — including a full schedule — to help you make the most of this conference for freedom builders.As our speaker lineup settles into place, we have begun to announce our panel discussions for the LF26 Main Stage.They will cover topics including housing, technology, health, the future of money, and the value of successful and ongoing efforts to free libertarian political prisoners (like Ross Ulbricht, Roger Ver, and Ian Freeman). |
| On our Main Stage, we will hear from individuals from across New Hampshire and the country on practical topics for building freedom in the here and now.Only a few are included below. Click here to see all of our announced speakers for NH Liberty Forum 2026. |
| Dialogues will Deep Dive into Ideas for “Liberty in Practice” |
| Dialogues at Liberty Forum are designed to promote deeper exploration of practical ideas for liberty within small groups of thinkers and builders.This year, we are hosting eight limited-seating dialogues with expert facilitators. Check them out below.To maximize your experience at the 2026 NH Liberty Forum, I recommend that you plan to attend at least one dialogue session.(Pre-registration for dialogue sessions will open tomorrow (Monday, 2/23) exclusively for VIP ticket holders. Look for an email in your inbox.) |
| Many Opportunities to Build Freedom at Liberty Forum 2026 |
| Throughout the conference, you can interact with our sponsors and exhibitors — as well as take advantage of the amenities we offer to families and VIP participants. In our Welcome Hall, participants will engage with sponsors and exhibitors who are actively building freedom in the real world. In our Childcare Room, parents will be able to hire adults and teens to care for their young children during the conference. (FSP events are always family-friendly!) In our VIP Lounge, enjoy refreshments and conversation in a quiet and relaxed setting. (This room is restricted to VIP ticket holders, FSP Patrons, and forum speakers.) In our Media Room, podcasters and social media creators will conduct interviews with speakers and forum participants. |
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| Want to sponsor or exhibit? Act quickly! We still have limited opportunities open for sponsors and exhibitors. |
| NH Liberty Forum 2026 Porcupine Patron BenefitsPorcupine Patrons, All Levels: Receive complimentary access to the VIP Lounge (when wearing your Porcupine Patron Pin). Porcupine Patrons, Gold Level and Higher:You may redeem 2 complimentary tickets to Liberty Forum 2026. Reply to this email so we can confirm your patron status and register you for your tickets. Not a Patron yet?Why not? Join our Porcupine Patron program today! |
| Be sure to check our new FSP introduction video: “Live Free or Die — Start your Journey with the Free State Project.” Thank you to FSP Video Strategist Reinita Susman. |
| Thank you to our Porcupine Patrons! |
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| If you believe in our mission for a liberty homeland in New Hampshire, I’d like to ask you to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project. For just $10/month, you can support our year-round efforts to build “Liberty in Our Lifetime.” Additionally, you will receive exclusive patron benefits, including our quarterly print newsletter, access to our private Signal group, and perks at all FSP events. We’re 8 patrons away from 300. Will you be one of them? If you’ve ever thought about becoming a $10/month Porcupine Patron (or at a higher tier), this is the week I’d be especially grateful if you did. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donations to the Free State Project are tax-deductible. We welcome donations in dollars, cryptocurrency, and other forms.Can I count you in as a Porcupine Patron? |
| Porcupine Patron Pin. In addition to other fantastic benefits, every Porcupine Patron of the Free State Project receives this “Porcupine Patron Pin.” These pins are not just for show! Patron pins grant access to exclusive FSP event perks, including VIP rooms, patron-only events, and courtesy drink tickets. Click here to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project. |
| It is my honor to serve as Executive Director of the FSP.Please read on for more of our weekly newsletter from the Free State, prepared with assistance from our Communications Director, Mahgdalen Rose. For Liberty! Hon. Eric Brakey Executive Director Free State Project |
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| MARK YOUR CALENDAR! |
| Join In for Upcoming Events at the SHELL!The SHELL Liberty Clubhouse in the New Hampshire Seacoast hosts regular events for Free State community building. Visiting the SHELL for the first time? Don’t get lost. Click here for directions to find the SHELL. |
| Recurring Free State EventsNew Mover Potluck Parties! Manchester – First FridayUpper Valley – First SaturdaySeacoast – Third Sunday North Country – Third SaturdayLocal Meetups!Bedford – Weekly, TuesdaysPlymouth – Semi-monthly, second and fourth WednesdaysSeacoast – Weekly, Thursdays (changes town) Upper Valley – Monthly, fourth TuesdayNashua – Weekly, SundaysGilford – Monthly, third Saturday Ossipee – Semi-monthly, second Sunday and third Tuesday Madison – Monthly, second Saturday Grafton – Monthly, second SaturdayKeene – Weekly, SundaysThis is only a small sample of what’s going on in the Free State! Recurring topical events include agorism, family play time, range shooting, and crypto.Find upcoming events across the state on our NH Liberty Calendar. |
| Free State Voices |
| Save Our Schools: The Property Tax Revolt Starts Now | The IndependentsComing to you live from the Free State of New Hampshire — Carla Gericke is joined in-studio by constitutional scholar Daniel Richard (National Heritage Center for Constitutional Studies) for a deep dive into his citizen-led initiative Save Our Schools NH.Click to watch the full episode. |
| Voices of Liberty Podcast: In a clip from a conversation with Sean Themea on YAL’s new podcast, FSP Director Brakey explains why New Hampshire is “America’s #1 Freedom State!“Click to watch the clip. |
| Have you ordered your copy yet?FSP Director Eric Brakey published his first book — a pithy door-knocking guide of 13 rules for liberty candidates running for local office. This is a must-have for anyone who wants to win at the door.All proceeds benefit the Free State Project.Click here to order a copy on Amazon. |
| Defend The Guard: Hon. Eric Brakey (FSP Executive Director, speaking on his own behalf) reminds the NH Senate Finance Committee that Daniel Webster would want them to pass Defend the Guard. He urges them to recognize that our state has a duty to interpose and defend our guard units from deployment into undeclared forever wars. Click here to watch his testimony before the NH Senate Finance Committee! |
| POLITICO: New Hampshire’s GOP Gov. Kelly Ayotte draws her first major challengerConcord Monitor: State announces car inspections are not needed in New HampshireConcord Monitor: Scholars reflect on the enduring legacy of New Hampshire’s constitution, 250 years laterUnion Leader: Forest Journal: Seasonal Shifts: How New Hampshire wildlife endures the cold even in a changing climateUnion Leader: Manchester honors boy attacked by dogs and the police officers who saved him NH Bulletin: NH Senate committee approves child care workforce funding bill as House takes a different pathNH Bulletin: House shuts down effort to revive the death penalty in New Hampshirenhpr: Energy officials challenge regulatory decision on Eversource rates at NH Supreme CourtNH Bulletin: New Hampshire education funding is already adequate, Republican bill asserts |
| As Seen in the Free State |
 The Young Americans for Liberty chapter at the University of New Hampshire welcomed FSP Director Eric Brakey this week to talk about the Free State Project as a winning strategy and his personal journey in the liberty movement since the high days of Ron Paul. Eric gifted them with several copies of his new book: The Liberty Candidate’s Practical Guide to Door Knocking. |
 A perfect snowy walk. Photo by Miranda Animus. |
 “Proud to stand with these men of the Free State in support of Defend the Guard at today’s Senate hearing. The old guard voted it down immediately in committee 8-0, but we can still get a roll call vote in the NH Senate. That’s what we need this year: a Senate roll call. ” – Hon. Eric Brakey |
 Ducks in winter. Photo by Chris Lopez. |
 Taproom Tuesday in Bedford! |
| Some Upcoming Events |
| Monday, February 23rdRollinsford, 5:30pm-7:30 – Conspiracy Theory Group – Meets every fourth Monday. Join us at The SHELL to discuss the latest psyops and conspiracies with like-minded liberty lovers. Hosted by Nick Hubbard (the SHELL, 3 Front St, Rollinsford)Tuesday, February 24thSeabrook, 8am-9 – Weekly Patriot Breakfast – A weekly social meeting of NH Patriots, think traditional Constitutional Republican. Hosted by Jude. (Linda’s Breakfast & Lunch Place, 920 Lafayette Road, Seabrook) Bedford, 4pm-8 – Taproom Tuesday at Murphy’s Carriage House – Come meet fellow liberty lovers at our weekly event! $5 drafts & wine and $10 cocktails & appetizers all night! Please invite others! Hosted by Bill & Gail. (Murphy’s Taproom & Carriage House, 393 State Rte 101, Bedford) Lebanon 6-8pm – Liberty Tuesday – Meets every fourth Tuesday. Meet your liberty neighbors in the Upper Valley! We’ll be in the back by the arcade games. Hosted by Jody Underwood. (Ziggy’s Pizza, 254 N Plainfield Rd, West Lebanon) Manchester, 7:40pm-9:10 – First Fruits Ministries – Monthly on the last Tuesday. Please join us to learn more about the Scriptural, historical, cultural, contextual, and practical applications of the faith for living in the 21st Century. Hosted by Andrew Manuse. (First Fruits Ministries, 60 Bailey Ave, Manchester) Manchester, 8pm-10:30 – AFP-NH 2026 State of the Union Watch Party – Join Americans For Prosperity New Hampshire for an exciting watch party of the State of The Union address. As we await President Trump’s address, we’ll gather to discuss policies impacting our state and nation with fellow liberty activists & legislators. There’ll even be an open bar as well as a SOTU bingo with 3 fantastic prizes! Dinner & drinks provided. RSVP TODAY! Hosted by Derek Proulx. (AFP-NH Manchester Field Office, 8025 S Willow St, Suite 205, Manchester)Wednesday, February 25thLancaster, 8:30am-10:30 – North Country US History Class – Geared toward teenagers & adults, this United States History is a full survey course designed to help students think critically about history, engage with primary sources, and develop strong historical arguments. Free for The ‘Pine members ($5 donation for non-members). Course taught by NH State Rep Calvin Beaulier. (the Pine, 70 Main St, Lancaster) Plymouth, 6pm-8:30 – Pemi Valley Porcupines – Come on over and join us liberty lovers for dinner and conversation at our semi-monthly event. Hosted by Aubrey Freedman. (Last Chair Brewery & Restaurant, 5 NH-25, Plymouth) YouTube 7pm-8 – FSP Porcupine Report – Free State Project Executive Director Eric Brakey sits down every week to interview the movers and shakers of New Hampshire. Join us on YouTube! Hosted by Eric Brakey.Thursday, February 26thSeabrook 6pm-8 – Seabrook Liberty Outreach Meetup – It’s all about good ideas, good people, and good eats. So come on down! Hosted by Joël Valenzuela. (Chop Shop Pub, 920 Lafayette Rd, Seabrook)Manchester, 6pm-8 – FSP Volunteer Party – This month the FSP volunteers will be stuffing bags for this year’s Liberty Forum! All of the supplies will be on hand and we need your help to get them prepared for the big event. Snacks provided! Hosted by Chris Lopez. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester) Manchester, 6pm-11 – Arts & Crafts Club – Come join our weekly Art/crafting club! Bring your current project or just to hang out and talk to other makers. Byob and snacks to share if you like! We’ll be in the kids room during the volunteer party. Hosted by Lady Jane. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester) Friday, February 27th6:30pm-10 – Religious Bitcoin/Crypto Meetup – Join us for a monthly meetup exploring the moral and spiritual dimensions of Bitcoin and blockchain technology. Together, we’ll discuss how sound money principles align with religious values like stewardship, honesty, and justice. This gathering is open to all faith backgrounds and anyone interested in the ethical implications of a decentralized peaceful money standard. Almost one year active! Text Zephan for address (603)369-7729Saturday, February 28thLitchfield, 10am-1pm – WDL-NH Concealed Carry – So many members have questions about carrying concealed that we hold this class each year to help guide them in their self-defense journey. This is an interactive conversation where our instructors will answer any questions our members may have about carrying concealed. This is a free class for members only. Please email today to register. Concord, 12pm-3 – Baby & Toddler Clothing Swap – Come swap your too-small children’s clothing for the next size up! We welcome first time moms & usually have newborn supplies they can take home. If you don’t have clothes to donate, please bring a fruit or veg snack to share. Hosted by Mrs Kin. (the Prickle, 74 Curtisville Rd, Concord) Henniker, 5pm-6:30 – Community Circle – Gathering in community is a practice as old as time, and one that is needed now more than ever, in this age of digital communications. And so, we hold space every month for in-person connection. $22 suggested donation. Hosted by Lauren Lou. (Rooted Free Farm, 1040 Old Hillsboro Rd, Henniker) Rollinsford, 6pm-10 – Poker Night – Join Freecoasters for Poker at the Shell. Buy in is just $10 and we encourage you to bring snacks, BYOB. Donations to the Shell are appreciated! Hosted by Stephen Nass. (the SHELL, 3 Front St, Rollinsford) Sunday, March 1stManchester, 11am-2pm – Anarchist Book Club – We will be discussing They Thought They Were Free: The Germans 1933-1945 by Milton Mayer. This is an open event, so invite your friends! Hosted by Sam B. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester) Rollinsford, 12pm-5 – Ice Cream Social – Stop by your favorite liberty community center for an ice cream social. Newcomers welcome! Hosted by Stephen Nass. (the SHELL, 3 Front St, Rollinsford) Rollinsford, 3pm-5 – Movie Night at the SHELL – This time we are watching “True Lies” from 1994 and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. Hosted by Stephen Nass. (the SHELL, 3 Front St, Rollinsford) Manchester, 5pm-7:30 – Manchester Crypto Meetup – We’re not trying to shill any coin, token, or project. We are a group of individuals and businesses in support of cryptocurrency and its everyday uses. Hosted by Matt Ping. (Strange Brew Tavern, 88 Market St, Manchester) Keene, 5pm-6 – Social Sunday – Enjoy the company of other liberty-loving people at NH’s longest-running activist social! Hosted by Chris Wade. (Local Burger, 82 Main St, Keene)Nashua, 6pm-8 – Nashua Liberty Social – Weekly Nashua Meet-Up – Location varies each week. This calendar event is typically updated by 2PM on Sunday. Meet-ups are generally within about a 10 minute drive of the downtown area. Hosted by Jeff Creem. |
| Remember that this is only a partial list.For all FSP events and more details on those highlighted here, be sure to check out the NH Liberty Calendar. |
| Free Staters are builders.Here are a few things we are reporting on in this week’s Porcupine Post:A Culture of Building — Over a generationof migration and concentration, the Free Staters of New Hampshire have created a welcoming libertarian culture focused on accomplishment. Build Freedom in 18 Days at the NH Liberty Forum — March 5-8, 2026 — First round of sponsors and exhibitors announced. Tickets! (Discount Code: PorcPost) A Porcupine Patron Update — Thank you to our 290 Porcupine Patrons. Can you help us reach 300? Become a patron! These weekly FSP newsletters are often long because a lot is happening in the Free State. Treat it like a Sunday paper and skip ahead to whatever interests you. |
| What Makes Free Staters Different? |
 Free Staters and visitors at the summit of Mt. Cardigan in September 2025 for the 1st annual Granite Freedom Trek. |
| Have you heard that joke: “There is only one real libertarian.”It’s a running joke in libertarian circles about ideological purity spirals, but have you ever noticed that there is no parallel joke about Free Staters?Forgive my indulgence, leading this week’s newsletter with some personal reflections, but I believe that understanding this explains why the Free State movement is successful, while the national libertarian movement consistently struggles to make real world advances.To paraphrase Andrew Heaton’s remarks at the 2025 NH Liberty Forum and his book, “Tribalism is Dumb:”All humans exist in relationship to tribes.All humans desire status within their tribes. Two of the primary paths for tribal status are prestige and purity. Prestige is status gained through boons for the tribe. Purity is status for maintaining the tribe’s laws and customs. |
| For the last fifty years, the national Libertarian Party (LP) strategy has struggled to achieve lasting wins.Frankly, it is a strategy that cannot win under the national political system, as laws are currently written. That is why its accomplishments tend to plateau at maintaining ballot access (in elections still mathematically designed to ensure their candidates can’t win).With so little opportunity for accomplishment, the leaders of this strategy can only distinguish themselves through moral and philosophical purity, pushing the culture toward purity spiral.Meanwhile, over the last quarter century since Jason Sorens’s original essay rejecting the national LP strategy in favor of a concentration strategy, many thousands of libertarians have made the move to a place where things of consequence can be accomplished.As a result, in the Free State of New Hampshire, we have built a libertarian culture around works and achievement — not philosophical purity. |
| Here, if you want to prove yourself, you go out and build something.You sign the statement of intent, declaring that you want to help build a society where the maximum role of government is protecting life, liberty and property. |
| “I hereby state my solemn intent to live in New Hampshire and exert my fullest practical effort toward the creation of a society in which the maximum role of government is the protection of individual rights to life, liberty, and property.”The Free State Project Statement of Intent |
| After that, no one grills you on the finer points of Murray Rothbard versus Milton Friedman to decide if you are a “real Free Stater.” We simply ask you to be a good neighbor and build cool things to reinforce and expand liberty in the “Live Free or Die” state.That’s why individual Free Staters earn their reputations through laws repealed, lawsuits won, clubhouses established, businesses built, technologies pioneered, events produced, and families raised. |
| How does one become a real Free Stater? It takes just three steps.1. Sign the Statement of Intent2. Be a Good Neighbor 3. Build Liberty We are a community for liberty builders. Welcome to New Hampshire. |
| Build Freedom at the 2026 NH Liberty Forum! |
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| Funny things can happen on your way to the forum… …but what wouldn’t be funny is missing out on the conference for freedom builders we are assembling this year.In 18 days, will we see you in Concord at the 2026 New Hampshire Liberty Forum?This March 5-8, we are assembling a conference for thought leaders and builders to discuss the practical ways we can build freedom, right here, right now.Please use discount code “PorcPost” to save 5% on your tickets for the 2026 NH Liberty Forum. |
| In less than four weeks, we look forward to welcoming our speakers, facilitators, sponsors, exhibitors, and participants.On our Main Stage, we will hear from top freedom builders and thinkers from across New Hampshire and the country. We will discuss how to build real freedom for real people in the realms of sound money, nuclear power, housing, healthcare, schooling, liberating political prisoners, ending forever wars, practical politics, and more. In our Dialogue Room, eight facilitators will lead small group, deep-dive conversations into overcoming practical challenges on the road to putting liberty into practice. |
| Throughout the conference, you can interact with our sponsors and exhibitors — as well as take advantage of the amenities we offer to families and VIP participants. In our Welcome Hall, participants will engage with sponsors and exhibitors who are actively building freedom in the real world. In our Childcare Room, parents will be able to hire adults and teens to care for their young children during the conference. (FSP events are always family-friendly!) In our VIP Lounge, enjoy refreshments and conversation in a quiet and relaxed setting. (This room is restricted to VIP ticket holders, FSP Patrons, and forum speakers.) |
| Want to sponsor or exhibit? Act quickly! We still have limited opportunities open for sponsors and exhibitors. |
| NH Liberty Forum 2026 Porcupine Patron BenefitsPorcupine Patrons, All Levels: Receive complimentary access to the VIP Lounge (when wearing your Porcupine Patron Pin). Porcupine Patrons, Gold and Higher:You may redeem 2 complimentary tickets to Liberty Forum 2026. Reply to this email so we can confirm your patron status and register you for your tickets. Not a Patron yet?Why not? Join our Porcupine Patron program today! |
| Be sure to check our new FSP introduction video: “Live Free or Die — Start your Journey with the Free State Project.” Thank you to FSP Video Strategist Reinita Susman. |
| Thank you to our Porcupine Patrons! |
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| If you believe in our mission for a liberty homeland in New Hampshire, I’d like to ask you to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project. For just $10/month, you can support our year-round efforts to build “Liberty in Our Lifetime.” Additionally, you will receive exclusive patron benefits, including our quarterly print newsletter, access to our private Signal group, and perks at all FSP events. We have reached 290 patrons. Can you help us reach 300? If you’ve ever thought about becoming a $10/month Porcupine Patron (or at a higher tier), this is the week I’d be especially grateful if you did. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all donations to the Free State Project are 100% tax-deductible. We welcome donations in dollars and many forms of cryptocurrency.Can I count you in as a Porcupine Patron? |
| Porcupine Patron Pin. In addition to other fantastic benefits, every Porcupine Patron of the Free State Project receives this “Porcupine Patron Pin.” These pins are not just for show! Patron pins grant access to exclusive FSP event perks, including VIP rooms, patron-only events, and courtesy drink tickets. Click here to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project. |
| It is my honor to serve as Executive Director of the FSP.Please read on for more of our weekly newsletter from the Free State, prepared with assistance from our Communications Director, Mahgdalen Rose. For Liberty! Hon. Eric Brakey Executive Director Free State Project |
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| MARK YOUR CALENDAR! |
| Join In for Upcoming Events at the SHELL!The SHELL Liberty Clubhouse in the New Hampshire Seacoast hosts regular events for Free State community building. Visiting the SHELL for the first time? Don’t get lost. Click here for directions to find the SHELL. |
| Recurring Free State EventsNew Mover Potluck Parties! Manchester – First FridayUpper Valley – First SaturdaySeacoast – Third Sunday North Country – Third SaturdayLocal Meetups!Bedford – Weekly, TuesdaysPlymouth – Semi-monthly, second and fourth WednesdaysSeacoast – Weekly, Thursdays (changes town) Upper Valley – Monthly, fourth TuesdayNashua – Weekly, SundaysGilford – Monthly, third Saturday Ossipee – Semi-monthly, second Sunday and third Tuesday Madison – Monthly, second Saturday Grafton – Monthly, second SaturdayKeene – Weekly, SundaysThis is only a small sample of what’s going on in the Free State! Recurring topical events include agorism, family play time, range shooting, and crypto.Find upcoming events across the state on our NH Liberty Calendar. |
| Free State Voices |
| The Porcupine Report w/ Eric Brakey – Ep. 99: “Build Freedom from the War Machine” with Scott HortonScott Horton joins the show to share insights from decades of reporting on U.S. foreign policy, the War on Terror, and America’s global military footprint. He explains how his books, interviews, and new Horton Academy are helping people better understand the true costs of endless war. Scott discusses his growing reach with mainstream audiences and why more Americans are questioning interventionism and media narratives. He and Eric explore New Hampshire’s Defend the Guard movement and the effort to restore constitutional limits on undeclared wars. Scott reflects on how antiwar principles shape a deeper understanding of liberty and the state. He closes by encouraging listeners to stay informed, support grassroots efforts, and help build real alternatives to the war machine.Click to watch the full episode. |
| The Independents w/ Carla Gericke – “Reputation, Security & Power — Confessions About Nonpublic Sessions”This week on The Independents, Carla Gericke cuts through the noise to reveal what’s actually happening in the Free State. We cover: Right-to-Know and government transparency battles; Upcoming bills that matter (and why); Secrecy vs. sunshine in public decision-making; Character auditing — what people’s projections really tell you; A surprising good-neighbor story (because community matters) Politics isn’t just policy — it’s psychology, relationships, and the power structures shaping real lives. Politics is people. Two lessons to remember: (1) Unspoken expectations are premeditated resentments. (2) Accusations are often confessions. If you want a deeper look at NH legislation, real transparency issues, and how we live free in practice, subscribe and follow along.Click to watch the full episode. |
| Have you ordered your copy yet?FSP Director Eric Brakey published his first book — a pithy door-knocking guide of 13 rules for liberty candidates running for local office. This is a must-have for anyone who wants to win at the door.All proceeds benefit the Free State Project.Click here to order a copy on Amazon. |
| Vermont Viewpoint – Eric Brakey, Executive Director of the Free State Project, breaks down New Hampshire’s efforts to gain territory from Maine, growing movements across the country of conservative leaning counties wanting to join neighboring states, and NH Liberty Forum in March. Click to tune in! |
| WMUR 9: New Hampshire AG: Vehicle inspection program suspended until further noticeValley News: Ayotte wants to bring more nuclear power to New Hampshire. How would that work?News from the states: Solar tax changes put aside in New Hampshire House, for nowWMUR 9: Warming trend expected in New Hampshire through weekend, early next weekWMUR 9: Dramatic lenticular clouds form in New Hampshire skiesWMUR 9: SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket seen in New Hampshire sky after Florida launch early Friday morning |
| As Seen in the Free State |
 Beautiful Sunrise by Julie Despres! |
 A sold out house with 80 in attendance came out to hear stand-up comedy from Robie “the Fire” Bernstein on Valentine’s Day evening at the SHELL. |
 Stephen Nass helps Robbie “the Fire” Bernstein set up before Comedy Night at the SHELL. |
 NH Women’s Defense League. |
 Photo Credit Patricia Arzillo |
| Some Upcoming Events |
| Monday, February 16thStrafford, 6pm-9 – Build; Don’t Bitch (You are the Power) – Every 3rd Monday of the month, Porcupines gather for “Build, Don’t Bitch” – an inspiring evening of sharing, planning, and celebrating building liberty-for-real. Discover new projects, hear about successes, learn who needs support, and get inspired to take action. And share your freedom or other life stories!! Whether you’re a seasoned activist or just starting out, come share your activities and consider helping someone else’s! Featured Speaker: Bob Qua. Founded by Spike Cohen, “You Are The Power” rallies volunteers and money to help people unjustly persecuted, coerced, or otherwise invaded by local governments. Bob is heading New Hampshire’s “Tiger Team” and recruiting volunteers to champion NH liberty causes. Help him with your ideas for starting this effort in New Hampshire. Hosted by Dennis Pratt. (Independence Inn, 6 Drake Hl Rd, Strafford) Online, 8pm-9 – NH Exit Town Hall – Join us on Jitsi every third Monday of the month to discuss the latest on New Hampshire Independence! Hosted by Russell Kanning. Online, 10pm-11 – Japanese Club – Join our weekly Discord call to practice Japanese…and swap anime recommendations. すべての日本語話者を歓迎します！ 元気な会話を楽しんでください。 Hosted by Yaro. (Discord)Tuesday, February 17thBedford, 4pm-8 – Taproom Tuesday at Murphy’s Carriage House – Come meet fellow liberty lovers at our weekly event! $5 drafts & wine and $10 cocktails & appetizers all night! Please invite others! Hosted by Bill & Gail. (Murphy’s Taproom & Carriage House, 393 State Rte 101, Bedford) Ossipee, 6pm-8 – Carroll County Freedom Meetup – Open discussion and networking for people interested in foundational principles of New Hampshire and American Independence and ways to peacefully continue those traditions. Call Ted Krautmann at 603-986-4480 for address.Wednesday, February 18thLancaster, 8:30am-10:30 – North Country US History Class – Geared toward teenagers & adults, this United States History is a full survey course designed to help students think critically about history, engage with primary sources, and develop strong historical arguments. Free for The ‘Pine members ($5 donation for non-members). Course taught by NH State Rep Calvin Beaulier. (the Pine, 70 Main St, Lancaster) Merrimack, 6:30pm-8:30 – CryptoCanal Drinks – Merrimack – CryptoCanal is finally expanding across the pond to the New Hampshire USA tech hub! We host monthly meetups for both savvy devs and crypto-curious. Whether you have questions about crypto, need a co-founder for your startup, or just want to meet like-minded folks, you (and your family!) are welcome to come. GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! Hosted by Joël Valenzuela. (Able Ebeneezer Brewing Co, 31 Columbia Cir, Merrimack) YouTube 7pm-8 – FSP Porcupine Report – Free State Project Executive Director Eric Brakey sits down every week to interview the movers and shakers of New Hampshire. Join us on YouTube! Hosted by Eric Brakey.Thursday, February 19thManchester, 4pm-6 – Sound Money – The goal of the group is to create a parallel economy in NH that transacts in Gold and Silver Payment. Currently offering bi-weekly Sound Money Business Networking designed to overcome Gresham’s law with quality referrals for business owners and sales professionals. Hosted by John Nelson. (1800 Elm St, Manchester, Second Floor Conference Room) Rochester 6pm-9 – Rochester Liberty Outreach Meetup – Are you tired of big government? Just want to live free? You’ll be in good company at our weekly liberty meetups every Thursday night. The goal of these meetups is to provide a place for those interested in the philosophy of liberty to learn more and get involved in our vibrant community of families, entrepreneurs, and activists. It’s all about good ideas, good people, and good eats. So come on down! Hosted by Seamus Casey. (Revolution Taproom & Grill, 61 N Main St, Rochester) Manchester, 6pm-11 – Arts & Crafts Club – Come join our new Art/crafting club! Bring your current project or just to hang out and talk to other makers! Byob and snacks to share if you like! Supervised children are welcome! Hosted by Lady Jane. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester) Friday, February 20thManchester, 6:30pm-7:30 – Manchester Monthly Shoot – Recurring every third Friday in Manchester! Regular rate is $25 per hour; use promo code #FSP5 for a $5 discount! Hosted by James. (Manchester Firing Line Range, 2540 Brown Ave, Manchester) Manchester, 7pm-10 – Big Damn Movie Night – Join the crew for a cinematic romp through the heroic and the hopeful. Expect laughter and legendary lines. Bring snacks, bring friends, bring your inner hero… just don’t bring chatter once the lights go down. Join us. Members only. Normal guesting rules apply. Hosted by Gavin. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester)Saturday, February 21stGilford, 12pm–1:30 – Lakes Region Porcupines – Come and meet up with your fellow Porcupines in the Lakes Region for Liberty, Laughter, and Local Fun every month on the third Saturday! Hosted by Rick Notkin. (El Tequila Restaurant, 1458 Lakeshore Rd Suite 5, Gilford) Manchester, 2pm-5 – Manchester Marketplace – Join us for our monthly community market and farm share pick-up! Get some shopping done from your fav local porcupines #shoplibertylocal Hosted by Emily Smith. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester)Lancaster, 4pm-7 – North Country Monthly Potluck – Come join the North Country Porcupines for our monthly potluck! Bring a dish and spend some time reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones. Hosted by Staci Webb. (the ‘Pine, 70 Main St, Lancaster) Sunday, February 22ndManchester, 11am-2pm – Anarchist Book Club – We will be discussing They Thought They Were Free: The Germans 1933-1945 by Milton Mayer. This is an open event, so invite your friends! Hosted by Sam B. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester) Rollinsford, 12pm-5 – Ice Cream Social – Stop by your favorite liberty community center for an ice cream social. Newcomers welcome! Hosted by Stephen Nass. (the SHELL, 3 Front St, Rollinsford) Candia, 1:15pm-3:15 – The Gruck a.k.a. Garnet Ruck – GRUCK: Granite Ruck. Rucking is the act of walking with weight on your back. It’s a low impact exercise based on military training workouts that improves cardio, strength, endurance, and character. This is a challenge by choice event, go as heavy or as far as you’re enthusiastic about. Whether you come for camaraderie or to test your mettle, as long as you come in peace, you’re welcome! Hosted by Michael Rohan. (Garnet School, 456 Critchett Rd, Candia) Manchester, 2pm-4 – Ice Skating – A family friendly public skating event. Only $5 per person! Hosted by Patrick. (JFK Memorial Coliseum, 303 Beech St, Manchester) Keene, 5pm-6 – Social Sunday – Enjoy the company of other liberty-loving people at NH’s longest-running activist social! Hosted by Chris Wade. (Local Burger, 82 Main St, Keene) Manchester, 5pm-7:30 – Manchester Crypto Meetup – We’re not trying to shill any coin, token, or project. We are a group of individuals and businesses in support of cryptocurrency and its everyday uses. Hosted by Matt Ping. (Strange Brew, 88 Market St, Manchester) Nashua, 6pm-8 – Nashua Liberty Social – Weekly Nashua Meet-Up – Location varies each week. This calendar event is typically updated by 2PM on Sunday. Meet-ups are generally within about a 10 minute drive of the downtown area. Hosted by Jeff Creem |
| Remember that this is only a partial list.For all FSP events and more details on those highlighted here, be sure to check out the NH Liberty Calendar. |
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Police body cameras and government transparency 
The latest Right-to-Know bill hearings 
A proposed study on New Hampshire’s sovereign options 
The U.S. withdraws from the WHO—what does that mean, actually? 
Plus: what else lawmakers don’t want you paying attention to. No spin. No party talking points. Just independent analysis from the freest place in America.
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| The Porcupine Post Newsletter Sunday, January 4, 2026 |
| —A new year begins in the Free State.2026 isn’t just a normal year. It’s the 250th anniversary of our American revolution for liberty.Here are a few things we are reporting on in this week’s Porcupine Post newsletter:Where the Revolution Began – Here in New Hampshire, we begin celebrating the 1776 revolution six months before everyone else. Learn why and join Free Staters for a celebration this Tuesday! Build Freedom at the 2026 NH Liberty Forum — This week, we are excited to announce that NH House Majority Leader Jason Osborne will join us as one of our main stage speakers. A Porcupine Patron Update — We exceeded our end-of-year patron goal, with 280 patrons. Now, will you help us start the new year strong? These weekly FSP newsletters are often long because a lot is happening. Treat it like a Sunday paper and skip ahead to whatever interests you. If you only click one thing this week, make it the NH 250 Independence Day RSVP below. |
| Where the Revolution Began |
| January 5, 1776.Six months before the other colonies got around to signing the Declaration of Independence, New Hampshire had already declared its own independence.At the time, public opinion was still deeply divided across the thirteen: many still hoped for reconciliation with the British monarchy.But New Hampshire never waits for others to lead on liberty — declaring itself the first Free State in America with its own written constitution.The example set here laid the groundwork for all that was to come on July 4 and the war that followed for liberty in the thirteen “free and independent” states.That’s why we say, “The Revolution began in New Hampshire.” |
| The day after the official anniversary — Tuesday, January 6 — join our friends at AFP-NH to kick off a year of liberty with a celebration of NH’s 250th Independence Day.Dive into NH history & liberty with fun activities:Enjoy live traditional tavern music,Grab a limited-edition first-come first-served AFP NH 250 Tricorn Hat,Sign a new Declaration of NH Independence board,And much more!The evening will feature an inspiring panel on the 250th anniversaries of both New Hampshire’s and America’s independence, exploring what liberty truly means today.Dinner and a drink will be provided by AFP-NH! |
| When: January 6th, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PMWhere: Zorvino Vineyards, 226 Main St, Sandown, NH 03873 CLICK HERE TO RSVP. |
| Be sure to check our new FSP introduction video: “Live Free or Die — Start your Journey with the Free State Project.” Thank you to FSP Video Strategist Reinita Susman. |
| Rep. Jason Osborne to Speak at the 2026 NH Liberty Forum |
| Let’s Build Freedom.We are just over two months away from the 2026 New Hampshire Liberty Forum — March 5-8, 2026 — at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord, NH.This is a conference for those actively building solutions for a future grounded in individual human liberty.Thank you for being an email subscriber. Please use discount code “PorcPost” to save 5% on your tickets for the 2026 NH Liberty Forum. |
| Like last year, we will be running two tracks of content at the 2026 NH Liberty Forum:“Build Freedom” Main Stage Series – short-form talks and panels for a large audience; “Liberty In Practice” Dialogue Series – eight small group deep-dives (limited to 25 participants each), led by respected freedom builders with topics ranging from raising the next generation to the practical steps necessary for interstate secession. |
| In addition to speakers already announced, we’re excited to announce NH House Majority Leader Jason Osborne will join us to speak from the main stage at the 2026 NH Liberty Forum! As one of the most influential figures in the New Hampshire House, Majority Leader Osborne has been a driving force behind significant liberty victories — including the expansion of school choice, the protection of gun rights, and the advancement of economic freedom.In a recent love letter from one of our anti-FSP detractors in the NH House Democrat caucus, Rep. Osborne was described in this way: |
| “At the top of this power structure stands House Majority Leader Jason Osborne, one of the most dominant leaders in recent memory… His authority, built through party discipline and the Free State network, ensures that a small, ideologically rigid minority can dictate the direction of our entire state. This bloc has had a sweeping impact on legislation in both the House and Senate.” |
| A Free Stater and longtime ally of our movement, Jason brings real-world experience leading the majority caucus and turning ideas into law. His remarks will offer an insider perspective on how we can continue building freedom in New Hampshire by removing government obstacles that stand in the way of builders and innovators. There will be plenty more announcements ahead on the 2026 NH Liberty Forum, so keep reading this weekly newsletter.Remember to use discount code “PorcPost” to save 5% on your tickets for the 2026 NH Liberty Forum. |
| Thank You to Our Outreach Volunteers! |
| With the launch of our Outreach program in the second half of 2025, Free Staters have made hundreds of new contacts with liberty lovers across New England.I want to personally thank and acknowledge our Outreach volunteers! |
| At the FSP, our job is fishing for people — those who share liberty values and want to live free. Here is exactly how we do it:The more people learn, the more they connect.The more people connect, the more they visit.The more people visit, the more they move. The more people move, the more they build.The more people build, the faster liberty wins.As a small non-profit, our efforts at every stage are powered by volunteers — and we need more of them.You can volunteer from here in the Free State of New Hampshire or anywhere in the country.Click here to sign-up as an FSP volunteer. |
| 280 Patrons Goal Reached for Year’s End |
| If you believe in our mission for a liberty homeland in New Hampshire, I’d like to ask you to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project.For just $10/month, you can support our year-round efforts to build “Liberty in Our Lifetime” — outreaching and inviting new movers to join us in the Free State.Additionally, you will receive exclusive patron benefits, including our quarterly print newsletter, access to our private Signal group, and perks at all FSP events.We reached 280 patrons by the end of 2025 — and we need to keep the momentum going in 2026. If you’ve ever thought about becoming a $10/month Porcupine Patron (or at a higher tier), this is the week I’d be especially grateful if you did.As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, all donations to the Free State Project are 100% tax-deductible. We welcome donations in dollars and many forms of cryptocurrency.Can I count you in as a Porcupine Patron? |
 Porcupine Patron Pin. In addition to other fantastic benefits, every Porcupine Patron of the Free State Project receives this “Porcupine Patron Pin.” These pins are not just for show! Patron pins grant access to exclusive perks at all FSP events, including VIP rooms, patron-only events, and courtesy drink tickets. Click here to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project. |
| It is my honor to serve as Executive Director of the FSP.Please read on for more of our weekly newsletter from the Free State, prepared with assistance from our Communications Director, Mahgdalen Rose. For Liberty! Hon. Eric Brakey Executive Director Free State Project |
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| MARK YOUR CALENDAR! |
| Want to Build a Porcupine Theme Weekend?Dennis Pratt, Owner of the Independence Inn, is seeking participants and organizers for Porcupine Theme Weekends throughout 2026.Please email him — [email protected] — if you would be interested in participating or helping build a theme weekend for liberty lovers regarding any of the following interests. Musicians: Playing music togetherGamers: Playing tabletop gamesCouples: Natalism / BirthingPoliticians: Winning political officeHistorians: Celebrating the Pine Tree RiotMarksmanship2nd Amendment: Shooting gunsFamily Freedom: Raising a free family your wayTom Woods Cruise: Pre GatheringSailors: Tall ship schoonerMedical WorkersTheatre WorkshopsOther ideas are also welcome. |
| Recurring Free State EventsNew Mover Potluck Parties! Manchester – First FridayUpper Valley – First SaturdaySeacoast – Third Sunday North Country – Third SaturdayLocal Meetups!Bedford – Weekly, TuesdaysPlymouth – Semi-Monthly, second and fourth WednesdaysSeacoast – Weekly, Thursdays (changes town) Upper Valley – Monthly, fourth TuesdayNashua – Weekly, SundaysGilford – Monthly, third Saturday Ossipee – Semi-Monthly, second Sunday and third Tuesday Madison – Monthly, second Saturday Grafton – Monthly, second SaturdayKeene – Weekly, SundaysThis is only a small sample of what’s going on in the Free State! Recurring topical events include agorism, family play time, range shooting, and crypto.Find upcoming events across the state on our NH Liberty Calendar. |
| Free State Voices |
| Porcupine Report #94: “The Free State Documentary” with Reinita SusmanEric sits down with documentary filmmaker Reinita Susman to talk about her path to New Hampshire and the spark behind her documentary, FREE STATE. She shares how living in California during the COVID era pushed her to start capturing the real stories of people impacted by lockdowns.The conversation centers on her multi-episode project exploring the Free State movement through the lives of homesteaders, entrepreneurs, homeschoolers, and liberty-minded activists. Through featured clips, they dig into ideas like alternative money, decentralization, and the strength that comes from building community with people who share your values. They show how New Hampshire’s culture of freedom and fellowship became a refuge during a time of crisis—and why it continues to draw people looking for a freer, more intentional way of life. Watch the full episode of the Porcupine Report! |
| We will continue building the Free State in New Hampshire! Click to watch the full clip. |
| WGME: New Hampshire to end annual vehicle inspections in January 7 News: New Hampshire hit by 2.1 magnitude earthquakeWMUR9: “First Day Hikes” take place in New HampshireSeacoastonline: New Hampshire anti-sanctuary city laws go into effect Jan. 1 |
| Sights in the Free State |
 Photo credit: Karen Lean |
 Photo credit: Wholesome New Hampshire |
 Photo credit: Lake Winnipesaukee |
| Some Upcoming Events |
| Monday, Jan 5thLondonderry, 6pm-8 – Liberty & Cigar Meetup – Come on up for liberty and cigars monthly meetup! Hosted by Sarah Faber. (Twins Smoke Shop & 7-20-4 Lounge, 80 Perkins Rd, Londonderry) Exeter, 6pm-9 – The First Liberty State (Monday Manumission) – This Monday’s Manumission is the 250th anniversary – to the day – of the first American constitution. We’ll meet to witness the uncovering of this first American constitution. So inspired, we will thereafter retire to Margarita’s (93 Portsmouth Ave, Exeter) to eat, drink, and conspire. Hosted by Dennis Pratt. (Exeter Town Hall, 10 Front St, Exeter) Tuesday, Jan 6thBedford, 4pm-8 – Taproom Tuesday at Murphy’s Carriage House – Come meet fellow liberty lovers at our weekly event! $5 drafts & wine and $10 cocktails & appetizers for $10 all night! Please invite others! Hosted by Bill & Gail. (Murphy’s Taproom & Carriage House, 393 State Rte 101, Bedford) Henniker, 5:30pm-7:30 – Men’s Circle – A monthly gathering of brothers, fathers, and sons, sharing counsel through new and ancient experiences. $11 donation requested; sign up online or pay at the event. Hosted by Alex Konsevick. (Rooted Free, 1040 Old Hillsboro Rd, Henniker) Sandown, 6pm-8:30 – Live Free 250: Celebrating NH’s Independence – Dive into NH history & liberty with fun interactive tables and activities, enjoy live traditional tavern music, grab a limited-edition custom AFP NH 250 Tricorn Hat, sign a new Declaration of NH Independence board, and much more. Dinner and a drink will be provided by AFP-NH. GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! Hosted by Derek Proulx. (Zorvino Vineyards, 226 Main St, Sandown) Wednesday, Jan 7thRollinsford, 7pm-9 – Workshop Night – Bring your project to work on. This is a great opportunity to launch an entrepreneurial venture with your peers, get consults on a project, or use the resources at the Shell. Hosted by Stephen Nass. (the SHELL, 3 Front St, Rollinsford, Unit B10) YouTube, 7pm-8 – FSP Porcupine Report – Free State Project Executive Director Eric Brakey sits down every week to interview the movers and shakers of New Hampshire. Join us on YouTube! Hosted by Eric Brakey.Thursday, Jan 8thExeter 6pm-9 – Exeter Liberty Outreach Meetup – The goal of these meetups is to provide a place for those interested in the philosophy of liberty to learn more and get involved in our vibrant community of families, entrepreneurs, and activists. It’s all about good ideas, good people, and good eats. So come on down! Hosted by Jenny & Brian. (Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, 93 Portsmouth Ave, Exeter) Saturday, Jan 10thBarrington, 1:30-2:30 – Seacoast Firearms Meetup – Meet up and shoot at Renaissance Arms indoor range in Barrington. Range fees and ammo are the responsibility of each participant. Hosted by Jeff Russo. (Renaissance Firearms, 55 Calef Hwy, Barrington)Madison, 4pm-6 – Carroll County Freedom Potluck – A monthly meet-up is in your area, so come on up and say hi! Please RSVP to [email protected] for directions or call our landline 603 367 7257 and indicate that you’re with the FSP. Hosted by Mark & Michelle. Grafton, 4pm-7 – Grafton Potluck – Monthly potluck for friends of liberty, i.e., Free Staters and friends, that meets monthly. Call Rich at 619.305.5172 for an address. Henniker, 5pm-6:45 – Community Circle – Gathering in community is a practice as old as time, and one that is needed now more than ever, in this age of digital communications. And so, we hold space every month for in-person connection. $20 suggested donation. Hosted by Lauren Noone. (Rooted Free Farm, 1040 Old Hillsboro Rd, Henniker) Sunday, Jan 11thBarrington, 9am-1pm – WDL -NH New Shooters Shoot – Women Only Environment – New Shooters Shoot – for women who have never touched a firearm or those who want a quick refresher class on safety and shooting. All attendees must register ahead of time as the classes fill up very quickly and we have a limited number of seats we can fill. If you are an existing member of the League, email [email protected] for registration – the New Shooters Shoot is FREE to members. Hosted by the Women’s Defense League. (Renaissance Firearms, 55 Calef Hwy, Barrington) Barrington, 9:30am-10:30 – WDL-NH Shoot with the Girls! Happy New Year! – Come get some training with fellow League members and our instructors as we ring in the New Year with a bang!!! You must email [email protected] to register for the shoot so we know how many members will be coming! This is members only shoot! (Renaissance Firearms, 55 Calef Hwy, Barrington) Ossipee, 12pm-2 – Ossipee Porcupines Meetup – Come meet your neighbors at Harley Jacks for lunch with mountain views. We’ll be sharing how we’re living free and what practical efforts we want to try to keep increasing liberty in the east of the Free State! Hosted by Tim Bauman. (Harley Jacks Burgers & Brews, 1020 NH-16, Ossipee) Concord, 12pm-10 – The Agora “One Year of the Agora” – “The Agora” is a private event where folks are free to voluntarily trade and barter, host workshops, presentations, listen to music, play games, or just socialize with their community. Think of this as a community coming together to break bread much like a family would, because ultimately we are one big liberty family! THIS MONTH: We celebrate the birthday of the Agora! We will be having cake and celebrating 1 year of this successful event. During the last hour of the event we will be going over plans for the next one and the themes of the Agora for the year of 2026. Bring your thinking cap! Hosted by Dylan. (the Prickle, 74 Curtisville Rd, Concord) |
| Remember that this is only a partial list.For all FSP events and more details on those highlighted here, be sure to check out the NH Liberty Calendar. |
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What are you actually changing—or just pretending to? On this week’s episode of The Independents, we cut through the noise and get grounded in what’s real, local, and already moving: New Year’s resolutions… New Hampshire–style Cannabis and other baked goods crossing the border from Canada 
What’s happening this week in the Free State. MAHA quietly delivering real changes—while Trump makes the global chessboard messier. Upcoming events and actions with EdOpt, AFP-NH, and the Free State Project. No panic juice. No prepared scripts. Just sovereignty, sanity, and a little common sense served fresh.
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