The Exchange

A crash in Randolph leaves 7 motorcyclists dead, stunning the state and making national news. After a bitter debate, state lawmakers pass a $13 billion budget along party lines and prepare for a promised gubernatorial veto. And Retired Brigadier General Don Bolduc announces he is running for U.S. Senate, the first Republican to challenge incumbent Democrat Jeanne Shaheen in her bid for re-election in 2020.

The nation's highest court is completing its term this week, recently handing down rulings addressing free speech, racial discrimination, and the separation of church and state. We'll look at what these decisions mean -- and what's left to be decided. Also on the docket: the Trump Administration's addition of a citizenship question to the 2020 census and the practice of gerrymandering.

Three local booksellers talk about the best new books for summer 2019, from historical fiction to humorous essays, first-time authors to well-established storytellers and journalists. Read on for our complete list of recommendations.

As 20 of the 25 Democratic presidential candidates prepare for the first debates, we talk with voters who are watching this primary season unfold and waiting for their first choice to emerge. Are they seeking someone with a more progressive or moderate agenda? Or someone who they believe can beat President Trump?

In his new book, The Weather Machine , Andrew Blum explores the people, the technology, and the infrastructure behind the weather forecast we rely on day to day, and the role of meteorology in the study of our planet and global policy and decision making. The book is on sale June 25th.

With the boom in backyard chickens, New Hampshire cities and towns are trying to balance this trend with regulations aimed at safety and neighborhood peace. What have you seen in your town? We discuss the how-tos, the rules, and what raising backyard chickens means for people and their communities.

Hundreds of business are in D.C. opposing tariffs this week, so how will trade discussions with China and Mexico, among other places, impact New Hampshire? Also, we have a preview of the state's lucrative summer tourism season, and discuss what the Federal Reserve might do with interest rates.

How are the 2020 primary candidates distinguishing themselves among New Hampshire voters. There are now 23 candidates competing for the Democratic nomination, and each is trying to carve out a space in the field. Meanwhile, the first Democratic debates are next week and not all the candidates are included. Have you attended any campaign events? Who stands out to you, and why? What are your top issues?

General stores have been part of the fabric of life in N.H. towns for over 200 years. But many of the state's traditional general stores struggle or have closed in today's competitive retail economy amid big box stores. We look at how general stores become the heart of a community, and how they are innovating to stay relevant in the 21st century. This program will air on Monday, June 17, at 9 a.m., and will be rebroadcast again at 7 p.m. It was originally broadcast on March 13, 2019.

U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand will be on the debate stage at the Democratic National Committee June 26 or 27. The two-term senator, who has been behind in the polls , recently met the 65,000 donor mark. Gillibrand has more than a decade of experience in Congress and the highest percentage of women donors . We ask Gillibrand about paid family leave, gun control, her version of a Green New Deal, and abortion rights.