Evan Bayh Helps Organize National Non-Partisan Convention

O’Malley was the first of eight candidates from both parties participating in the event hosted by No Labels, a group created after the 2010 midterm elections to bridge the divide between Republicans and Democrats. Kelly Ayotte, a Republican, and her newly announced Democratic challenger Gov. Maggie Hassan both had early speaking spots at today’s No Labels convention. Bernie Sanders and Kasich will headline a bipartisan presidential forum in New Hampshire next month aimed at addressing the nation’s most urgent problems. In the past week, Republican presidential candidate Ben Carson has suggested the Holocaust wouldn’t have happened if Jews in Europe were better armed, said gun control is a bigger tragedy than a bullet-riddled body and that the best way to confront a mass shooter is to rush the gunman. “What we need are answers to the problems, not just campaign rhetoric”, Sanders said via teleconference. “They get to meet important people”.

Despite the partisan nature of Capitol Hill, Graham said the parties do come together for the good of the nation. No Labels is a growing citizens movement of Democrats, Republicans and independents dedicated to ushering in a new era of problem solving in American politics.

Cole Kleitsch, who brought his three sons from Gladstone, N.J., said it is too early to choose a favorite candidate.

“Prove me wrong, but I don’t think you’re a friend to women”, said one woman in the crowd of more than 1,000.

“I knew I shouldn’t have picked her”, Trump responded.

“The thought of Trump getting elected scares me”, Cass said.

After Trump’s speech, he took a handful of questions from the crowd, including one from 18-year-old Lauren Batchelder of Cheshire, who questioned the candidate’s support for women.

“In the spirit of problem solving, I’m wondering if you’re at all concerned that a few of your divisive language that you use on the campaign trail undermines your ability to solve problems?” one woman asked him during a question-and-answer session, to loud applause.

“The word compromise is not a bad word to me, as a negotiator and having made deals all my life”, said Trump, pointing to his experience in global business. Away from the bustle of the convention, Welch told the Free Press he was happy to hear from multiple candidates outside of their natural constituency.

The pair joined six other presidential candidates along with numerous politicians and celebrities for Monday’s forum at the Radisson in Manchester.

New Hampshire’s independent voters can vote in either the Republican or Democratic primaries.

Presidential candidates who will address the group throughout the day are, in chronological order: former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley (D), U.S. Sen.

No Labels will maintain a presence in New Hampshire through the presidential primary.