Although independent candidates, and the nominees of unqualified parties, need not submit New Hampshire petitions until August 6, they are required to file a Declaration of Candidacy by June 13.

The only petitioning candidates who filed for Congress this year are Libertarians Gardner Goldsmith for U.S. Senate, and Brian Chabot for U.S. House, 2nd district. The only petitioning candidate who filed for Governor is John D. Shea, an independent who was formerly a Democratic member of the Executive Council.

Sixteen petitioning candidates filed for State House. At least two of them are Libertarians; probably most of the remainder are independents. The Declaration of Candidacy form does not ask for party label; the candidates indicate that when they file their petitions.