Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?

The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X account said it backs assassinating elected Democrats and that anyone unwilling should vote Republican instead. Officials from both parties condemned the post; the party called its statements legal, and its chair described them as self-defense.

Open source

InDepthNH published this screenshot of the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's September 22, 2026, X post.

Case period:September 22, 2026

Published by The Dispute Index editorial teamPublished September 29, 2026Updated September 29, 2026

Libertarian Party of New HampshireJeremy Kauffman

Political Violence U.S. Politics

Overview

On September 22, 2026, the official X account of the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posted that the party "openly support[s] the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire," adding that anyone unwilling to do so should vote Republican. InDepthNH.org attributed the post to party chair Jeremy Kauffman. The Boston Globe and Boston.com described it as deleted, while InDepthNH.org reported on September 23 that it remained live and that party chair Jeremy Kauffman said it had not been taken down. New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte, state Democratic Party chairman Raymond Buckley, House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson, U.S. Representatives Chris Pappas and Maggie Goodlander, and Republican congressional candidate Lily Tang Williams condemned the post. The state Attorney General's office said it was aware of the post but would not comment further. The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account separately said its posts are "completely legal," and after X temporarily suspended the account, Kauffman wrote that "patriots" should be able to "advocate for self-defense." It was the third time since 2024 that the party's account had posted about killing elected officials; the national Libertarian Party disaffiliated the state party in May 2026.

Read the full background

This case classifies reactions to the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's September 22, 2026 post about the state's elected Democrats. That post is the fixed reference point: did it amount to a threat of political violence, or was it, as the party and its chair have suggested, legally protected rhetoric or "self-defense"? This case does not decide whether the post violated any law; that is a question for readers and any legal process, not for DI.

InDepthNH.org (opens in a new tab) reported that in a post, party chair Jeremy Kauffman wrote, "We openly support the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire. But if you don't have the balls to do that then you should probably vote GOP." New Hampshire Public Radio (opens in a new tab) and the Valley News (opens in a new tab) separately quoted the same first sentence. We could not independently retrieve the original post, and reports differ on whether it was deleted. The Boston Globe and Boston.com described it as deleted, while InDepthNH.org reported on September 23 that it remained live and that party chair Jeremy Kauffman said it had not been taken down. This account relies on these three outlets' matching quotations.

Governor Kelly Ayotte called the post "irresponsible and dangerous" and said threats like it "should be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," according to NHPR. New Hampshire Democratic Party chairman Raymond Buckley said openly calling for the assassination of elected Democrats is "a disgusting glorification of political violence." House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson said she contacted the State House's security office and the state Attorney General's office, and said "no one should fear for their life because of their beliefs or their decision to serve the people of New Hampshire." U.S. Representative Chris Pappas said rhetoric calling for political assassination "has no place in New Hampshire or our country," according to Newsweek (opens in a new tab), which says its reporters used an AI assistant to produce that article; we treat its quotations as lower confidence except where corroborated elsewhere. U.S. Representative Maggie Goodlander and Republican congressional candidate Lily Tang Williams also condemned the post, according to Boston.com (opens in a new tab).

The New Hampshire Attorney General's office told NHPR it could "confirm that the New Hampshire Department of Justice is aware of the social media posts" but "would not be in a position to comment further at this time."

The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account separately said its statements are "completely legal," according to the Boston Globe (opens in a new tab), which linked that quotation to a specific post on the party's account. After X temporarily locked the account for breaking the platform's rules against threatening or glorifying violence, Kauffman wrote, "It remains a major asymmetry that communists can openly argue for mass enslavement, but patriots cannot advocate for self-defense," Boston.com reported.

The September 22 post was not the account's first. In September 2024, the account posted that "anyone who murders Kamala Harris would be an American hero," according to WBUR (opens in a new tab); the party later said in a statement that it "would never advocate for the assassination of a tyrannical President" and was "merely acknowledging how some members would react." In March 2026, the account wrote that under libertarian ethical theory it was "perfectly permissible to kill" former Executive Councilor Andru Volinsky over his income tax proposal, according to NHPR (opens in a new tab). The national Libertarian Party disaffiliated the New Hampshire party in May 2026, according to the Valley News (opens in a new tab) and Boston.com (opens in a new tab), which both describe the party's Non-Aggression Principle pledge; the national party later called the September post part of a series of "violent extremist comments," according to the Boston Globe (opens in a new tab).

People in this case

Jeremy KauffmanDirectly involved
Kelly AyotteCommented
Lily Tang WilliamsCommented
Maggie GoodlanderCommented

Follow this case

Timeline

12 timeline entries on this page. Dates: September 15, 2024 to October 19, 2026

September 2024
1. September 15, 2024
  Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about Kamala Harris
  Incident
  The party's X account posted that "anyone who murders Kamala Harris would be an American hero," along with other posts about shooting politicians, before deleting them.
  [01]N.H. Libertarian Party encourages 'assassination' of Harris, drawing scrutiny from state, federal authorities
  Source excerpt
  Anyone who murders Kamala Harris would be an American hero.
  Reports an earlier, separate 2024 post by the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire endorsing violence against then Vice President Kamala Harris, used here only for timeline background.
  N.H. Libertarian Party encourages 'assassination' of Harris, drawing scrutiny from state, federal authoritiesParagraphs quoting the original post about Kamala Harris and the party's Monday statement
2. September 16, 2024
  Libertarian Party of New Hampshire issues "official statement on political assassinations"
  Reaction
  The party said in a statement that it "would never advocate for the assassination of a tyrannical President" and was "merely acknowledging how some members would react."
  [01]N.H. Libertarian Party encourages 'assassination' of Harris, drawing scrutiny from state, federal authorities
  Source excerpt
  Anyone who murders Kamala Harris would be an American hero.
  Reports an earlier, separate 2024 post by the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire endorsing violence against then Vice President Kamala Harris, used here only for timeline background.
  N.H. Libertarian Party encourages 'assassination' of Harris, drawing scrutiny from state, federal authoritiesParagraphs quoting the original post about Kamala Harris and the party's Monday statement
March 2026
1. March 3, 2026
  Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about Andru Volinsky
  Incident
  The party's X account wrote that under libertarian ethical theory, it was "perfectly permissible to kill" former Executive Councilor Andru Volinsky over his income tax proposal.
  [02]NH Libertarian Party says 'perfectly permissible to kill' former Executive Councilor for income tax plan
  Source excerpt
  Under libertarian ethical theory, it is perfectly permissible to kill him.
  Reports an earlier, separate post by the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire threatening former Executive Councilor Andru Volinsky over his income tax proposal, used here only for timeline background.
  NH Libertarian Party says 'perfectly permissible to kill' former Executive Councilor for income tax planParagraphs quoting the party's post about Andru Volinsky and Rep. Alexis Simpson's statement
May 2026
1. May 24, 2026
  National Libertarian Party disaffiliates the New Hampshire party
  The national Libertarian Party ended its affiliation with the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire in May 2026 and later recognized the Granite State Libertarian Party as its state affiliate.
  [03]Backlash ensues after the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire calls for assassinations, again
  Source excerpt
  The Non-Aggression Principle is a fundamental core of libertarianism.
  Reports the national Libertarian Party's May 2026 disaffiliation of the New Hampshire party, its statement on the September post, and reactions from congressional candidates.
  Backlash ensues after the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire calls for assassinations, againParagraphs on the national Libertarian Party's May disaffiliation statement, and quotes from Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Lily Tang Williams, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post
  [04]N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' Democrats
  Source excerpt
  said its statements are "completely legal."
  Links directly to the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's own X posts and to Jeremy Kauffman's post about the account suspension. Those underlying X posts could not be independently retrieved as of the date accessed, so this article is cited as the source for their wording.
  N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' DemocratsParagraphs on Governor Ayotte's Wednesday statement, the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'completely legal' post, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post, each linked to the underlying X post
September 2026
1. September 22, 2026
  Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about assassinating elected Democrats
  Incident
  The party's X account posted that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire and that anyone unwilling should vote Republican. Outlets differ on whether the post was later deleted: the Boston Globe and Boston.com said it was, while InDepthNH.org reported on September 23 that it remained live.
  [05]Social Media Post Calls for Assassinating all Elected NH Democrats
  Source excerpt
  We openly support the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
  Same-day report that quotes the post directly and attributes it to party chair Jeremy Kauffman. The post itself is not independently archived; this quotation is corroborated by New Hampshire Public Radio and the Valley News.
  Social Media Post Calls for Assassinating all Elected NH DemocratsParagraphs quoting the post and describing Rep. Alexis Simpson's report to the State House security office and the Attorney General's office
  [06]NH Libertarian Party endorses 'assassination' of elected Democrats
  Source excerpt
  We openly support the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
  Reports the post and collects same-week reactions from the state Attorney General's office, the Governor, and Democratic party and legislative leaders.
  NH Libertarian Party endorses 'assassination' of elected DemocratsFull article, including the Attorney General's office statement and quotes from Governor Ayotte, Raymond Buckley, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
  [07]'Assassination' post draws condemnation from all sides
  Source excerpt
  We openly support the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
  Corroborates the exact wording of the post and reports the national Libertarian Party's statement reiterating its Non-Aggression Principle pledge.
  'Assassination' post draws condemnation from all sidesParagraphs quoting the post, the national Libertarian Party's statement on its membership pledge, Governor Ayotte, the Attorney General's office, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
2. September 23, 2026
  National Libertarian Party denounces the post
  Reaction
  The national Libertarian Party said calling for violence goes against its principles, citing its Non-Aggression Principle pledge, and reiterated that it had already ended its affiliation with the New Hampshire party.
  [07]'Assassination' post draws condemnation from all sides
  Source excerpt
  We openly support the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
  Corroborates the exact wording of the post and reports the national Libertarian Party's statement reiterating its Non-Aggression Principle pledge.
  'Assassination' post draws condemnation from all sidesParagraphs quoting the post, the national Libertarian Party's statement on its membership pledge, Governor Ayotte, the Attorney General's office, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
  [04]N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' Democrats
  Source excerpt
  said its statements are "completely legal."
  Links directly to the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's own X posts and to Jeremy Kauffman's post about the account suspension. Those underlying X posts could not be independently retrieved as of the date accessed, so this article is cited as the source for their wording.
  N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' DemocratsParagraphs on Governor Ayotte's Wednesday statement, the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'completely legal' post, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post, each linked to the underlying X post
3. September 24, 2026
  X temporarily locks the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account
  The social platform X temporarily locked the party's account for breaking its rules against threatening, inciting, or glorifying violence.
  [04]N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' Democrats
  Source excerpt
  said its statements are "completely legal."
  Links directly to the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's own X posts and to Jeremy Kauffman's post about the account suspension. Those underlying X posts could not be independently retrieved as of the date accessed, so this article is cited as the source for their wording.
  N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' DemocratsParagraphs on Governor Ayotte's Wednesday statement, the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'completely legal' post, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post, each linked to the underlying X post
  [07]'Assassination' post draws condemnation from all sides
  Source excerpt
  We openly support the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
  Corroborates the exact wording of the post and reports the national Libertarian Party's statement reiterating its Non-Aggression Principle pledge.
  'Assassination' post draws condemnation from all sidesParagraphs quoting the post, the national Libertarian Party's statement on its membership pledge, Governor Ayotte, the Attorney General's office, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
October 2026
1. October 13, 2026
  Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about plans to kill Democrats
  Incident
  The party's X account wrote that libertarians who are not voting would need to "make plans to kill a lot of people" and asked, "Do you have a plan to kill millions of Democrats?"
  [08]LPNH again advocates violence against Democrats
  Source excerpt
  Enough is enough. Week after week, the LPNH account posts rhetoric on X intended to encourage violence against Democrats.
  InDepthNH.org report on a Libertarian Party of New Hampshire post about plans to kill Democrats. It quotes the post, a statement from House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson calling on X to ban the account, and the chair of the Granite State Libertarian Party.
  LPNH again advocates violence against DemocratsParagraphs quoting the party's post and House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson's statement
  [09]Governor Ayotte urges X to suspend N.H. Libertarian group for endorsing violence against elected Democrats
  Source excerpt
  The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire called Ayotte's letter a "shameful" effort to "curtail legal political speech." But others questioned that framing.
  Boston Globe report on Governor Kelly Ayotte's letter asking X to suspend the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account. It dates the party's post about killing Democrats to Tuesday, October 13, and describes Alexis Simpson's statement, the deleted post about her, and responses from Jason Osborne, Sherman Packard, the Department of Justice and the party.
  Governor Ayotte urges X to suspend N.H. Libertarian group for endorsing violence against elected DemocratsAccount of the October 13 and 14 posts and the responses to them
2. October 14, 2026
  Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about the death of House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson
  Incident
  After Simpson called on X to ban the account, the party's account posted that New Hampshire "will be a better and freer place" when she "is dead", adding "(Or she could move out before that happens)". The post was later deleted. House Majority Leader Jason Osborne, a Republican, replied, "WTF is wrong with you people?" House Speaker Sherman Packard, also a Republican, said the post was "not political speech worth debating".
  [10]Ayotte calls on X to suspend NH Libertarian Party's account for calling for political violence
  Source excerpt
  The post that triggered Ayotte's letter targeted House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson.
  New Hampshire Public Radio report on Governor Kelly Ayotte's letter to X. It quotes the party's post about House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson and two X posts by House Majority Leader Jason Osborne criticizing the party's account.
  Ayotte calls on X to suspend NH Libertarian Party's account for calling for political violenceParagraphs quoting the post about Alexis Simpson and House Majority Leader Jason Osborne
  [09]Governor Ayotte urges X to suspend N.H. Libertarian group for endorsing violence against elected Democrats
  Source excerpt
  The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire called Ayotte's letter a "shameful" effort to "curtail legal political speech." But others questioned that framing.
  Boston Globe report on Governor Kelly Ayotte's letter asking X to suspend the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account. It dates the party's post about killing Democrats to Tuesday, October 13, and describes Alexis Simpson's statement, the deleted post about her, and responses from Jason Osborne, Sherman Packard, the Department of Justice and the party.
  Governor Ayotte urges X to suspend N.H. Libertarian group for endorsing violence against elected DemocratsAccount of the October 13 and 14 posts and the responses to them
  [11]Ayotte calls for social media suspension of Libertarian Party of NH in response to posts encouraging killing of Democrats
  Source excerpt
  Its most recent post, which has since been deleted, advocated for the death of House Minority Leader Alexis Simpson, a Democrat from Exeter.
  Concord Monitor report on Governor Kelly Ayotte's request that X suspend the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account. It quotes the party's October 1 post, Alexis Simpson's statement, House Speaker Sherman Packard, the State House's director of safety services and the Department of Justice.
  Ayotte calls for social media suspension of Libertarian Party of NH in response to posts encouraging killing of DemocratsParagraphs on the October 1 post, Alexis Simpson's statement and the Department of Justice
3. October 15, 2026
  Governor Ayotte asks X to suspend the party's account
  Reaction
  In a letter to Michael O'Herlihy, X's head of safety, Governor Kelly Ayotte asked the company to remove the party's violent posts and suspend its account for repeated violations of X's Violent Content Policy.
  [12]Governor Ayotte Calls on X to Suspend Account Calling for Political Violence
  Source excerpt
  Violent rhetoric is completely unacceptable and has no place in our civil discourse. These posts plainly violate X's own rules on violent content, and I'm calling on X to remove them and suspend the account immediately.
  Press release from the New Hampshire governor's office announcing Governor Kelly Ayotte's letter to Michael O'Herlihy, X's head of safety, asking the company to remove the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's violent posts and suspend its account. The release links to the letter.
  Governor Ayotte Calls on X to Suspend Account Calling for Political ViolencePress release dated October 15, 2026
  [13]Ayotte Joins Calls for LPNH Twitter Ban
  Source excerpt
  The New Hampshire Department of Justice is aware of these and previous posts and we understand the concerns that have been expressed.
  InDepthNH.org report on Governor Kelly Ayotte's letter asking X to suspend the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account. It quotes the letter at length and a statement from the Attorney General's spokesman on the posts.
  Ayotte Joins Calls for LPNH Twitter BanParagraphs quoting Governor Ayotte's letter and the Attorney General's spokesman
4. October 15, 2026
  Attorney General's office says it is reviewing the posts
  Reaction
  A spokesman for Attorney General John Formella said the Department of Justice is "aware of these and previous posts" and is "taking a close look at the posts and the applicable law to determine what, if any, action may be appropriate".
  [13]Ayotte Joins Calls for LPNH Twitter Ban
  Source excerpt
  The New Hampshire Department of Justice is aware of these and previous posts and we understand the concerns that have been expressed.
  InDepthNH.org report on Governor Kelly Ayotte's letter asking X to suspend the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account. It quotes the letter at length and a statement from the Attorney General's spokesman on the posts.
  Ayotte Joins Calls for LPNH Twitter BanParagraphs quoting Governor Ayotte's letter and the Attorney General's spokesman
  [09]Governor Ayotte urges X to suspend N.H. Libertarian group for endorsing violence against elected Democrats
  Source excerpt
  The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire called Ayotte's letter a "shameful" effort to "curtail legal political speech." But others questioned that framing.
  Boston Globe report on Governor Kelly Ayotte's letter asking X to suspend the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account. It dates the party's post about killing Democrats to Tuesday, October 13, and describes Alexis Simpson's statement, the deleted post about her, and responses from Jason Osborne, Sherman Packard, the Department of Justice and the party.
  Governor Ayotte urges X to suspend N.H. Libertarian group for endorsing violence against elected DemocratsAccount of the October 13 and 14 posts and the responses to them
5. October 19, 2026
  X shows the party's account as suspended
  By October 19, X's page for the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's @LPNH account read "Account suspended". The page does not say when or why X suspended the account.
  [14]The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X profile page
  Source excerpt
  Account suspended. X suspends accounts which violate the X Rules
  X's public page for the @LPNH account as it appeared on October 19, 2026. It shows the notice "Account suspended" and X's general explanation that it suspends accounts that break its rules. The page does not say when or why X suspended this account.
  The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X profile pageProfile page as shown to a signed-out visitor on October 19, 2026

Claims

Claims separate what was said from what is contested. Follow each source for the original wording and context.

What's disputed

Disputed claim

Libertarian Party of New HampshireSeptember 23, 2026

The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's posts, including its September 22 post about elected Democrats, are completely legal.

Sources (1)

N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' DemocratsParagraphs on Governor Ayotte's Wednesday statement, the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'completely legal' post, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post, each linked to the underlying X post

Disputed claim

Raymond BuckleySeptember 23, 2026

Openly calling for the assassination of elected Democrats is a disgusting glorification of political violence.

Sources (1)

NH Libertarian Party endorses 'assassination' of elected DemocratsFull article, including the Attorney General's office statement and quotes from Governor Ayotte, Raymond Buckley, and Rep. Alexis Simpson

Response record

Responses

Choose one response filter, or select All responses to see the full record.

23 responses. First 6 shown initially. Newest first.

Kelly AyotteGovernor of New HampshireOctober 15, 2026
Before this statement
The party's X account had posted on October 13 about plans to kill Democrats and on October 14 about the death of House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson. Ayotte condemned the party's September 22 post the day after it appeared.
"Violent rhetoric is completely unacceptable and has no place in our civil discourse. These posts plainly violate X's own rules on violent content, and I'm calling on X to remove them and suspend the account immediately."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
Governor Kelly Ayotte said the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's posts violate X's rules on violent content and asked X to remove them and suspend the account.
After the statement
Her letter to X's head of safety, Michael O'Herlihy, said the account "has openly called for the assassination of elected officials from the New Hampshire Democratic Party" and "most recently threatened a member of House leadership".
Governor Ayotte Calls on X to Suspend Account Calling for Political ViolencePress release dated October 15, 2026
Ayotte Joins Calls for LPNH Twitter BanParagraphs quoting Governor Ayotte's letter and the Attorney General's spokesman
Why this label?
The reference point is the party's September 22 post about assassinating elected Democrats. Ayotte's letter lists the account's call for the assassination of elected Democrats among the posts she calls violent rhetoric that X should remove, so she condemns it.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
Libertarian Party of New HampshireState political partyDirectly involvedOctober 15, 2026
Before this statement
Governor Kelly Ayotte had asked X that day to remove the party's posts and suspend its account.
"curtail legal political speech"
Challenged the characterization
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire called Governor Kelly Ayotte's letter to X a "shameful" effort to "curtail legal political speech".
After the statement
House Speaker Sherman Packard, a Republican, disputed that framing, saying, "Wishing death on an elected official is not political speech worth debating".
Governor Ayotte urges X to suspend N.H. Libertarian group for endorsing violence against elected DemocratsAccount of the October 13 and 14 posts and the responses to them
Why this label?
The reference point is the party's September 22 post. By calling the governor's request to remove its posts an effort against legal political speech, the party rejects the description of its posts, that one included, as threats of violence. That challenges the characterization; it does not argue that violence is justified.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
Alexis SimpsonHouse Democratic Leader, New Hampshire House of RepresentativesOctober 14, 2026
Before this statement
The statement followed an October 13 post on the party's account about plans to kill Democrats. Simpson had also condemned the September 22 post.
"Enough is enough. Week after week, the LPNH account posts rhetoric on X intended to encourage violence against Democrats. I have reported these posts to the appropriate law enforcement. X needs to enforce its rules and permanently ban the LPNH account."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson said the party's account posts rhetoric meant to encourage violence against Democrats, said she had reported the posts to law enforcement, and called on X to ban the account permanently.
After the statement
In the same statement she called on House Majority Leader Jason Osborne to publicly condemn the posts. The party's account then posted about her death, in a post it later deleted.
LPNH again advocates violence against DemocratsParagraphs quoting the party's post and House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson's statement
Ayotte calls for social media suspension of Libertarian Party of NH in response to posts encouraging killing of DemocratsParagraphs on the October 1 post, Alexis Simpson's statement and the Department of Justice
Why this label?
Measured against the party's September 22 post, Simpson describes the account's posts, which include it, as rhetoric intended to encourage violence and asks X to ban the account, so she condemns it.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
Libertarian Party of New HampshireState political partyDirectly involvedOctober 1, 2026
Before this statement
The post argued that libertarians have two ways to bring about political change, voting and violence, and urged them to vote and to move where they can have more effect.
"You get a place where when the media misrepresents your get-out-the-vote campaign as a call to 'assassinate Democrats' it's not a big deal and some elected anarcho-capitalists call you and laugh about it."
Challenged the characterization
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
In an October 1 post, the party described the reaction to its September 22 post as the media misrepresenting a get-out-the-vote campaign as a call to assassinate Democrats.
After the statement
Two weeks later the account posted about the death of House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson, in a post it later deleted.
Ayotte calls for social media suspension of Libertarian Party of NH in response to posts encouraging killing of DemocratsParagraphs on the October 1 post, Alexis Simpson's statement and the Department of Justice
Why this label?
The reference point is the September 22 post. The party describes that post as a get-out-the-vote campaign that the media misrepresented as a call for assassinations, which challenges the characterization of it as a threat.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
David F. Prenatt, Jr.Internet research consultant and commentatorSeptember 28, 2026
Before this statement
Prenatt commented on LPNH's assassination post.
"WAS JUST PLAIN WRONG"
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
Prenatt condemns LPNH's call for assassinating Democrats and rejects attempts to excuse it through comparisons with other parties.
After the statement
He rejected comparisons with other parties as an excuse.
David F. Prenatt, Jr.'s response to the disputeOriginal post, September 28 at 7:36 p.m.
Why this label?
He condemns the post's call for political violence.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
Jeremy KauffmanChair, Libertarian Party of New HampshireDirectly involvedSeptember 24, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account had posted on September 22 that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire. X temporarily locked the account for breaking its rules against threatening or glorifying violence.
"It remains a major asymmetry that communists can openly argue for mass enslavement, but patriots cannot advocate for self-defense"
Defended or excused
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
After the social platform X temporarily locked the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account for violating its rules against threats of violence, party chair Jeremy Kauffman said it was inconsistent that his side could not advocate for self-defense while opponents faced no similar restriction.
After the statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account remained locked for at least a week, according to the Boston Globe.
Backlash ensues after the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire calls for assassinations, againParagraphs on the national Libertarian Party's May disaffiliation statement, and quotes from Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Lily Tang Williams, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post
Why this label?
Relative to the fixed reference point, Kauffman reframed the party's rhetoric as legitimate self-defense rather than disavowing it, which defends the underlying conduct rather than rejecting or minimizing it.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement

View all 23 responsesShow fewer responses

Ricky DavilaSinger-songwriter and political commentatorSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
Davila responded to LPNH's assassination post.
"treated as a terrorist threat by law enforcement"
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
Davila criticizes LPNH's assassination post and argues that it should receive prominent news coverage and be treated as a threat by law enforcement.
After the statement
He called for news coverage and law-enforcement attention.
Ricky Davila's response to the disputeFull original post, September 23 at 1:11 p.m.
Why this label?
He condemns the post as a threat.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
Libertarian Party of New HampshireState political partyDirectly involvedSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
LPNH responded to criticism of its earlier assassination post.
"Some people seem to be misreading this."
Challenged the characterization
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
LPNH says Americans are generally unwilling to kill people and argues that its post's point was that people should vote. It does not retract or condemn the earlier post.
After the statement
It said the intended point was that people should vote.
Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's response to the disputeFull original post, September 23 at 3:08 p.m.
Why this label?
It disputes the interpretation of its post as endorsing killing.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
New Hampshire Department of JusticeOffice of the New Hampshire Attorney GeneralSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account had posted on September 22 that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
"We can confirm that the New Hampshire Department of Justice is aware of the social media posts. We would not be in a position to comment further at this time."
Explicitly stayed out
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
The New Hampshire Attorney General's office confirmed it was aware of the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's social media posts and said it would not comment further at that time.
After the statement
New Hampshire's Governor and Democratic officials separately issued their own statements condemning the post.
NH Libertarian Party endorses 'assassination' of elected DemocratsFull article, including the Attorney General's office statement and quotes from Governor Ayotte, Raymond Buckley, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
Why this label?
Relative to the fixed reference point, the Attorney General's office confirmed awareness of the post but expressly declined to characterize it further, which is an explicit decline rather than silence.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Lily Tang WilliamsRepublican candidate for U.S. House, New Hampshire's 2nd congressional districtSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account had posted on September 22 that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
"Political violence has no place in America — period, ... As someone who survived an oppressive communist regime where political violence was common, I know we should never take for granted our ability to settle disagreements through free speech, peaceful debate, and elections."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
Republican congressional candidate Lily Tang Williams condemned the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's promotion of political violence, citing her own experience under a communist regime.
After the statement
Tang Williams is a Republican challenging Goodlander, who also condemned the post, according to Boston.com.
Backlash ensues after the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire calls for assassinations, againParagraphs on the national Libertarian Party's May disaffiliation statement, and quotes from Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Lily Tang Williams, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post
Why this label?
Relative to the fixed reference point, Tang Williams rejected political violence as having no place in America, which condemns the conduct.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Maggie GoodlanderU.S. Representative for New Hampshire's 2nd congressional districtSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account had posted on September 22 that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
"I condemn, with every fiber of my being, the threats of and calls for murder from the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire, ... You can disagree with someone as deeply as humanly possible. But in the United States of America you cannot call for their killing and go unpunished."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
U.S. Representative Maggie Goodlander condemned the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post as a call for murder and called for a law enforcement investigation.
After the statement
Goodlander called on the New Hampshire Attorney General and federal law enforcement to investigate the post, according to Boston.com.
Backlash ensues after the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire calls for assassinations, againParagraphs on the national Libertarian Party's May disaffiliation statement, and quotes from Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Lily Tang Williams, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post
Why this label?
Relative to the fixed reference point, Goodlander condemned the post as an unpunishable call for killing, which condemns the conduct.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Chris PappasU.S. Representative for New Hampshire's 1st congressional district; Democratic candidate for U.S. SenateSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account had posted on September 22 that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
"Rhetoric calling for political assassination has no place in New Hampshire or our country — something we should all be able to agree on regardless of our political beliefs, ... We work out our differences through the democratic process where we engage in civil debate and seek common ground whenever possible."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
U.S. Representative Chris Pappas condemned rhetoric calling for political assassination and urged resolving disagreements through civil debate rather than violence.
After the statement
Pappas urged his colleagues to condemn the threats and called on social media platforms to enforce their rules against threats of violence, according to Newsweek.
New Hampshire Libertarian 'Vote GOP' Message Backs Assassinating DemocratsParagraphs quoting the post and statements from Rep. Chris Pappas, Governor Ayotte, and Rep. Maggie Goodlander
Backlash ensues after the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire calls for assassinations, againParagraphs on the national Libertarian Party's May disaffiliation statement, and quotes from Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Lily Tang Williams, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post
Why this label?
Relative to the fixed reference point, Pappas rejected rhetoric calling for political assassination as having no place in New Hampshire, which condemns the conduct.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Alexis SimpsonHouse Democratic Leader, New Hampshire House of RepresentativesSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account had posted on September 22 that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
"We can disagree and debate, but no one should fear for their life because of their beliefs or their decision to serve the people of New Hampshire, ... Threats of murder cannot become something we accept, excuse or ignore."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson said she contacted the State House's security office and the state Attorney General's office about the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post, and condemned the rhetoric.
After the statement
InDepthNH.org reported that Simpson said on Facebook she had reported the post to the Director of Security at the Legislature and to the Attorney General's office.
NH Libertarian Party endorses 'assassination' of elected DemocratsFull article, including the Attorney General's office statement and quotes from Governor Ayotte, Raymond Buckley, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
Why this label?
Relative to the fixed reference point, Simpson rejected the post as a threat that should never be accepted, excused or ignored, which condemns the conduct.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Raymond BuckleyChairman, New Hampshire Democratic PartySeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account had posted on September 22 that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
"Openly calling for the assassination of elected Democrats is a disgusting glorification of political violence"
Condemned
Responding to: Openly calling for the assassination of elected Democrats is a disgusting glorification of political violence.
Full statement and sources
New Hampshire Democratic Party chairman Raymond Buckley condemned the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post and called on top state Republicans to do the same.
After the statement
Buckley called on top New Hampshire Republicans to also condemn the post, according to NHPR.
NH Libertarian Party endorses 'assassination' of elected DemocratsFull article, including the Attorney General's office statement and quotes from Governor Ayotte, Raymond Buckley, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
Why this label?
Relative to the fixed reference point, Buckley directly denounced the post as a glorification of political violence, which condemns the conduct.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Kelly AyotteGovernor of New HampshireSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account had posted on September 22 that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire.
"This type of behavior is irresponsible and dangerous. Violent rhetoric has no place in our politics, and threats like this should be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
Governor Kelly Ayotte condemned the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's September 22 post and called for it to be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
After the statement
The state Attorney General's office separately confirmed it was aware of the post.
NH Libertarian Party endorses 'assassination' of elected DemocratsFull article, including the Attorney General's office statement and quotes from Governor Ayotte, Raymond Buckley, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' DemocratsParagraphs on Governor Ayotte's Wednesday statement, the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'completely legal' post, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post, each linked to the underlying X post
Why this label?
Relative to the fixed reference point, Ayotte rejected the post as irresponsible and dangerous rhetoric and called for legal consequences, which condemns the conduct rather than excusing or minimizing it.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Libertarian Party of New HampshireOfficial X account, Libertarian Party of New HampshireDirectly involvedSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
Officials across New Hampshire had condemned the party's September 22 post and the state Attorney General's office said it was aware of it.
"completely legal"
Challenged the characterization
Responding to: The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's posts, including its September 22 post about elected Democrats, are completely legal.
Full statement and sources
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account said its posts, including the September 22 statement about elected Democrats, are legally protected rather than unlawful threats.
After the statement
The Boston Globe reported that the party's account had also not deleted a separate post urging people to "light Democrats on fire."
N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' DemocratsParagraphs on Governor Ayotte's Wednesday statement, the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'completely legal' post, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post, each linked to the underlying X post
Why this label?
Relative to the fixed reference point, the party disputed the characterization of its post as an unlawful threat by asserting legality, without withdrawing or apologizing for the underlying content.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Steven SmithDeputy Speaker of the New Hampshire House of Representatives (Republican, Charlestown), speaking in a joint statement with House Minority Leader Alexis SimpsonSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X account had posted that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire and that people unwilling to do that should probably vote GOP, according to InDepthNH.org and the Valley News. Smith, a Republican, and Simpson, a Democrat, issued their joint statement as other officials and the Granite State Libertarian Party also condemned the post.
"The Libertarian Party’s posts calling for the assassination of Democrats are completely unhinged and unacceptable. No matter your party, political violence has zero place in New Hampshire, period. We need to drop this garbage, get back to regular debating, and settle our differences the right way"
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
New Hampshire House Deputy Speaker Steven Smith, a Republican, said in a joint statement with House Minority Leader Alexis Simpson that the Libertarian Party's posts calling for the assassination of Democrats were completely unhinged and unacceptable, and that political violence has no place in New Hampshire regardless of party.
After the statement
In the same joint statement, Simpson said calls for the assassination of elected officials must be condemned without hesitation and that, regardless of party, every leader has a responsibility to reject this dangerous rhetoric. The Valley News reported that the national Libertarian Party said it opposes political violence and had ended its affiliation with the New Hampshire organization in May.
Social Media Post Backing Assassination of NH's Elected Democrats Met With CondemnationParagraphs reporting the statement of Granite State Libertarian Party Chair Rachel Danner, and the joint statement by Deputy Speaker Steven Smith and House Minority Leader Alexis Simpson, near the end of the article
'Assassination' post draws condemnation from all sidesParagraphs quoting the post, the national Libertarian Party's statement on its membership pledge, Governor Ayotte, the Attorney General's office, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
Why this label?
The case asks whether the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post about assassinating elected Democrats was a threat of political violence. Smith called the party's posts unhinged and unacceptable and said political violence has zero place in New Hampshire whatever a person's party. That is an express rejection of the post, so we labeled it Condemned.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Karen Liot HillDemocratic member of the New Hampshire Executive Council, District 2September 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X account posted that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire and that people unwilling to do that should probably vote GOP, according to WCAX. WCAX reported that the post drew condemnation from lawmakers up to the governor.
"This was a really specific call to violence against a particular group of people that I happen to be a part of"
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
Karen Liot Hill, a Democratic member of the New Hampshire Executive Council, said the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post was a specific call to violence against a particular group of people that she belongs to.
After the statement
In the same report, WCAX said the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office was aware of the post but declined to comment.
NH Libertarian Party post sparks bipartisan outrage over assassination threatsArticle body, paragraph beginning 'Cinde Warmington, the Democratic nominee for governor, wrote'
Why this label?
The case asks whether the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post about assassinating elected Democrats was a threat of political violence. Liot Hill, a Democratic executive councilor, described the post as a specific call to violence against a group she belongs to. That is an express criticism of the post as violent rhetoric, so we labeled it Condemned.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
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Cinde WarmingtonDemocratic nominee for governor of New HampshireSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X account posted on September 22 that it openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire and that people unwilling to do that should probably vote GOP, according to WCAX and the Union Leader. WCAX reported that the post drew condemnation from lawmakers up to the governor.
"Threats of political violence against elected Democrats — against anyone — are abhorrent, beyond the pale, and endanger public servants across our state."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
Cinde Warmington, the Democratic nominee for governor, wrote that threats of political violence against elected Democrats, or against anyone, are abhorrent and beyond the pale and endanger public servants across New Hampshire.
After the statement
The Union Leader reported that Warmington, U.S. Representative Maggie Goodlander and House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson called on prosecutors to investigate the post. It also reported that Warmington called on Governor Kelly Ayotte to join her in urging the Libertarian Party to step back from what she called "this dangerous rhetoric."
NH Libertarian Party post sparks bipartisan outrage over assassination threatsArticle body, paragraph beginning 'Cinde Warmington, the Democratic nominee for governor, wrote'
NH Libertarian Party's advocacy for killing all elected Democrats decriedArticle body, second paragraph (officials calling for a criminal investigation) and the paragraph beginning 'Warmington joined in criticizing'
Cinde Warmington post on Bluesky, September 23, 2026Post from the @cindewarmington.bsky.social account; the first sentence is the quotation
Why this label?
The case asks whether the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post about assassinating elected Democrats was a threat of political violence. Warmington, in a written statement reported by WCAX, called threats of political violence against elected Democrats abhorrent, beyond the pale, and a danger to public servants. That is an express rejection of the conduct under scrutiny, so we labeled it Condemned.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
Libertarian Party of MaineState affiliate of the national Libertarian Party in Maine, in a public statementSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
According to WMTW, posts from the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X account said the group openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire. WMTW reported that the national Libertarian Party had said that group is not affiliated with it and does not speak for it.
"This isn't a messaging problem, it's a blatant betrayal of the one principle our movement exists to defend. Libertarianism rests on a single rule: no one may initiate force against another person or their property. Force is legitimate only in defense against force already underway. There's no exception for politics, elections, or frustration. A person who calls for violence over a party registration hasn't taken libertarianism too far, they've abandoned it entirely. … We don't apologize for LPNH's statement, because it isn't ours to apologize for. We condemn it flatly, without qualification."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
The Libertarian Party of Maine said it was outraged by the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's calls for violence against New Hampshire Democrats, called them a betrayal of the principle that no one may initiate force, and said it condemned the statement flatly, without qualification.
After the statement
WMTW published the Maine party's statement alongside condemnations from the national Libertarian Party, the Granite State Libertarian Party, Gov. Kelly Ayotte and Democratic officials.
National Libertarian Party denounces death threats posted on New Hampshire group's social media accountArticle body: the national Libertarian Party statement, the Granite State Libertarian Party response, the section headed Political Reaction and the section headed Response from Maine
Libertarian Party of Maine post on X, September 23, 2026Post from the @lp_maine account, shown in the LPME on Social Media section of lpme.org
Why this label?
The reference point is the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post supporting the assassination of elected Democrats, which the case asks readers to weigh as a possible threat of political violence. The Maine party called the New Hampshire group's calls for violence a betrayal of the principle that no one may initiate force, and said it condemns the statement flatly, without qualification. That expressly denounces the post, so we labeled it Condemned.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
Granite State Libertarian PartyChair of the Granite State Libertarian Party, speaking for the partySeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
InDepthNH.org reported that a post from the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X account said the party openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire. The Granite State Libertarian Party said the national party had revoked the New Hampshire group's affiliate status in May.
"The call for the assassination of Democratic elected officials in the state of NH is absolutely against the core values of Libertarianism and the Libertarian Party as a whole. This kind of behavior is why we formed the Granite State Libertarian Party. LPNH has consistently misrepresented Libertarian values in the state of NH, and our goal as an organization is to encompass those true core values and focus on achieving liberty in our lifetime through the means of peaceful participation, elections, advocacy, and engagement."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
Rachel Danner, chair of the Granite State Libertarian Party, said the call for the assassination of Democratic elected officials in New Hampshire is against the core values of Libertarianism and the Libertarian Party as a whole, and that the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire has misrepresented Libertarian values.
After the statement
InDepthNH.org also reported that Danner said statements by the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire or its social media accounts do not represent the Granite State Libertarian Party. WMTW reported that Angela Ryan, an executive member of the party, said the party does not condone the use of violence as a means to achieve political or societal goals.
Social Media Post Backing Assassination of NH's Elected Democrats Met With CondemnationParagraphs reporting the statement of Granite State Libertarian Party Chair Rachel Danner, and the joint statement by Deputy Speaker Steven Smith and House Minority Leader Alexis Simpson, near the end of the article
National Libertarian Party denounces death threats posted on New Hampshire group's social media accountArticle body: the national Libertarian Party statement, the Granite State Libertarian Party response, the section headed Political Reaction and the section headed Response from Maine
Granite State Libertarian Party Condemns Calls for Political AssassinationSection headed GSLP Leadership Responds: the statement from Chair Rachel Danner
Why this label?
The reference point is the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post supporting the assassination of elected Democrats, which the case asks readers to weigh as a possible threat of political violence. The Granite State Libertarian Party's chair said the call for assassination is absolutely against Libertarian values and that the group has consistently misrepresented them. That expressly rejects the post, so we labeled it Condemned.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
National Libertarian PartyNational political party, in a public statementSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
According to WMTW, posts from the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X account said the group openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire. The Boston Globe reported that the national party had severed ties with the group and recognized the Granite State Libertarian Party as its New Hampshire affiliate.
"organization in New Hampshire currently making violent extremist comments is not affiliated with the Libertarian Party and does not speak for our party. The Libertarian National Committee disaffiliated that organization in May. The Libertarian Party Judicial Committee later unanimously rejected its appeal."
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
The national Libertarian Party said the New Hampshire organization "currently making violent extremist comments" is not affiliated with it and does not speak for it, and that the Libertarian National Committee disaffiliated that organization in May.
After the statement
The Valley News reported that the national party said in its own post that it opposes political violence and that political and social change must be pursued through peaceful, voluntary means. The Boston Globe quoted the party's communications director, Rob Yates, as saying its leadership team was reviewing all legal options to protect the party's brand.
National Libertarian Party denounces death threats posted on New Hampshire group's social media accountArticle body: the national Libertarian Party statement, the Granite State Libertarian Party response, the section headed Political Reaction and the section headed Response from Maine
N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' DemocratsParagraphs on Governor Ayotte's Wednesday statement, the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'completely legal' post, and Jeremy Kauffman's account-suspension post, each linked to the underlying X post
'Assassination' post draws condemnation from all sidesParagraphs quoting the post, the national Libertarian Party's statement on its membership pledge, Governor Ayotte, the Attorney General's office, and Rep. Alexis Simpson
Why this label?
The reference point is the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post supporting the assassination of elected Democrats, which the case asks readers to weigh as a possible threat of political violence. The national party described the New Hampshire group's comments as violent extremist comments and said the group does not speak for it. That criticizes the conduct and rejects it as the party's own position, so we labeled it Condemned.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement
Margaret Wood HassanU.S. Senator for New HampshireSeptember 23, 2026
Before this statement
According to WMTW, posts from the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X account said the group openly supports the assassination of basically every elected Democrat in New Hampshire. The same report said the national Libertarian Party and the Granite State Libertarian Party had condemned the posts.
"There is absolutely no place for calls for political violence in our state or our country. The recent dangerous rhetoric calling for political assassinations in NH makes everyone less safe, and undermines the principles of our democracy. All leaders, of all political stripes, must condemn this rhetoric in the strongest possible terms"
Condemned
Case context: Was the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's 'assassination' post a threat of political violence?
Full statement and sources
Sen. Maggie Hassan said calls for political violence have no place in New Hampshire or the country, and that leaders of all political stripes must condemn the recent rhetoric calling for political assassinations in the strongest possible terms.
After the statement
In the same report, Gov. Kelly Ayotte called the posts irresponsible and dangerous, Rep. Maggie Goodlander condemned the threats and called on the state Attorney General and federal law enforcement to investigate, and state Democratic Party chairman Ray Buckley called the comments a disgusting glorification of political violence.
National Libertarian Party denounces death threats posted on New Hampshire group's social media accountArticle body: the national Libertarian Party statement, the Granite State Libertarian Party response, the section headed Political Reaction and the section headed Response from Maine
Sen. Maggie Hassan post on Bluesky, September 23, 2026Two consecutive posts from the @hassan.senate.gov account in one thread; the second begins 'All leaders, of all political stripes'
Why this label?
The reference point is the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's post supporting the assassination of elected Democrats, which the case asks readers to weigh as a possible threat of political violence. Hassan said there is no place for calls for political violence, said the rhetoric calling for political assassinations makes everyone less safe, and said all leaders must condemn it in the strongest possible terms. That rejects the post's rhetoric, so we labeled it Condemned.
This label describes the statement's response within the context above.
Read statement Link to this statement

Sources

(26)

Reporting

Social Media Post Calls for Assassinating all Elected NH Democrats

Social Media Post Calls for Assassinating all Elected NH DemocratsParagraphs quoting the post and describing Rep. Alexis Simpson's report to the State House security office and the Attorney General's office

Overview

People in this case

Timeline

September 2024

Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about Kamala Harris

Libertarian Party of New Hampshire issues "official statement on political assassinations"

March 2026

Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about Andru Volinsky

May 2026

National Libertarian Party disaffiliates the New Hampshire party

September 2026

Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about assassinating elected Democrats

National Libertarian Party denounces the post

X temporarily locks the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's account

October 2026

Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about plans to kill Democrats

Libertarian Party of New Hampshire posts about the death of House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson

Governor Ayotte asks X to suspend the party's account

Attorney General's office says it is reviewing the posts

X shows the party's account as suspended

Claims

What's disputed

Sources

Social Media Post Calls for Assassinating all Elected NH Democrats

The Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's X profile page

Ayotte calls on X to suspend NH Libertarian Party's account for calling for political violence

Governor Ayotte urges X to suspend N.H. Libertarian group for endorsing violence against elected Democrats

Ayotte calls for social media suspension of Libertarian Party of NH in response to posts encouraging killing of Democrats

Ayotte Joins Calls for LPNH Twitter Ban

LPNH again advocates violence against Democrats

Governor Ayotte Calls on X to Suspend Account Calling for Political Violence

David F. Prenatt, Jr.'s response to the dispute

Ricky Davila's response to the dispute

Libertarian Party of New Hampshire's response to the dispute

Cinde Warmington post on Bluesky, September 23, 2026

NH Libertarian Party's advocacy for killing all elected Democrats decried

NH Libertarian Party post sparks bipartisan outrage over assassination threats

Libertarian Party of Maine post on X, September 23, 2026

Granite State Libertarian Party Condemns Calls for Political Assassination

Sen. Maggie Hassan post on Bluesky, September 23, 2026

National Libertarian Party denounces death threats posted on New Hampshire group's social media account

Social Media Post Backing Assassination of NH's Elected Democrats Met With Condemnation

N.H. Libertarian Party encourages 'assassination' of Harris, drawing scrutiny from state, federal authorities

NH Libertarian Party says 'perfectly permissible to kill' former Executive Councilor for income tax plan

'Assassination' post draws condemnation from all sides

N.H. Libertarian group spurned by national party sparks fresh backlash with calls to 'assassinate' Democrats

Backlash ensues after the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire calls for assassinations, again

New Hampshire Libertarian 'Vote GOP' Message Backs Assassinating Democrats

NH Libertarian Party endorses 'assassination' of elected Democrats

Corrections

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