Residents in the small town of Dixville Notch, New Hampshire were the first to cast ballots in the state’s presidential primary election just after midnight on Tuesday.
Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney and former Utah Governor Jon Huntsman each received two votes, while former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Texas Congressman Ron Paul each received one vote apiece. Three Democratic ballots were cast for President Barack Obama.
The election results officially kick off the New Hampshire Republican presidential primary. Historically, the state has elected the Republican presidential nominee every year since 1968.
Mr. Huntsman, whom polls showed trailing Mr. Romney by a large margin, posted a message to supporters on Facebook late Monday, announcing the results.
“The results are in for Dixville Notch where the first votes are cast in the state. They have picked the GOP primary winner every year since 1968 and we tied for first place!” Mr. Huntsman wrote in a post.
In Hart’s County votes were also cast shortly after midnight. Mr. Romney received 5 votes, Mr. Paul received four votes, Mr. Huntsman received two votes, and Texas Governor Rick Perry and Mr. Gingrich each secured one vote.
