The New Hampshire town hall has long been a forum where normal people can have real interactions with presidential candidates. Lately it's starting to feel like those interactions are being co-opted by outside forces.

Want to make sure NHPR continues creating projects like Stranglehold? Donate $20 today right here: www.strangleholdpodcast.org

Stranglehold is the story of how one small state got its hands around the way we pick presidents - and won’t let go. It’s a political story unlike any you've heard before.

Stranglehold is a production of New Hampshire Public Radio.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices