"You have been a state that has liked underdogs. You have been a state that has liked mavericks," Richardson said. "Well, here's your chance."
Characterizing the campaign as a "marathon, not a sprint," Richardson advised voters that the election should be decided by the nation, rather than voters in the first few primaries.
In an interview with The Dartmouth and other media outlets after the event, Richardson said that although he hoped to place in the top three in New Hampshire, he would not drop out if he does not meet this goal.
"I need to do well," Richardson said. "I'm not defining what it means."
In his remarks, Richardson also spoke about his own electability, reminding the crowd that seven of the nation's last eight presidents have served as governors before reaching the White House. He also stressed that he represents a strategic choice for the Democratic nominee.
"I can bring the West. I can bring the Hispanic vote," Richardson said. "I can bring a whole new dimension of the Democratic party that used to be Republican."
Richardson emphasized several positions that have become the hallmarks of his campaign appearances, including the assertion that he is the major candidate with the strongest plan for troop removal from Iraq. Under Richardson's plan, all troops would be removed from Iraq by 2009, with no residual forces left in the country.
Richardson also emphasized his plan for diplomacy in the wake of the war's end.
During the event, Richardson spoke to environmental concerns, outlining his plan to reduce fossil fuel use by 50 percent by 2020.
Addressing civil liberties, Richardson pledged to shut down the detention facilities at Guantanamo Bay on "the first day" of his presidency. He said that his plan for foreign policy is "based on democracy, equality and the dignity of individuals."
Harkening back to Saturday night's Democratic presidential debate, held at St. Anselm's College, Richardson referenced the debate's extensive discussion of change and experience, again seeking to paint himself as the candidate who would bring both aspects to the presidency and bring America together.
"You can't have change without experience," he said.
Richardson interspersed his policy outline at the Hanover High event with quips, remaining at ease with his audience. At one point, after pledging to remove junk foods from schools, Richardson turned to the 10-year-old son of one of his introducers, Grafton County commissioner Michael Cryans, and apologized.
"Did I just lose your vote?" Richardson joked.
The governor, dressed in a turtleneck and button-down shirt, differentiated his campaign from those of the other three leading Democratic candidates, comparing his staff of "New Hampshire kids" to the slick Blackberry-clad staff of his opponents.
After his remarks, Richardson circulated amongst the crowd, which remained receptive throughout his speech.
For Richardson supporters, the afternoon showcased the energy they see in their candidate.
"I think he was right-on today," Jane Drorbaugh, a Hanover resident, said. "I just keep hoping he'll hit them with that message."
