Our History
History of the Free State Project
2001
Foundation
Jason Sorens, then a Yale doctoral student, publishes “Announcement: The Free State Project“, launching the idea of a political migration to concentrate 20,000 libertarians in a low-population state.
He follows up later that year with “Update: The Free State Project” — the first Free State Project FAQ.
2003
New Hampshire Selected
A vote amongst participants using the Condorcet method chooses New Hampshire as the target destination for the project.
Governor Craig Benson publicly welcomes the Free State Project, expressing genuine enthusiasm at the state Libertarian Party convention and urging participants: “Come on up. We’d love to have you.”
2004
First Porcupine Freedom Festival (PorcFest)
Launch of the Porcupine Freedom Festival (PorcFest) in New Hampshire, a now-iconic annual gathering of freedom-minded people.
2005
Mission Refined!
The Free State Project adopts a formal mission statement focused on life, liberty, and property.
2006
First Free Stater Elected to the State House!
First mover with the Free State Project, Joel Winters, elected to the state house
2007
The First NH Liberty Forum is Held!
The first New Hampshire Liberty Forum draws John Stossel and Ron Paul as featured speakers.
2008
1000 Signers!
“First 1000” campaign gets 1000 signers and over 400 movers to New Hampshire
2010
Riding the Tea Party Wave
First double-digit wave of Free Staters elected to the state legislature
2012
Ron Paul Makes Waves
The legend of “Ron Paul’s Freaking Giant” is born, as Dr. Paul wins unprecedented 23% in NH primary
2016
Move Triggered!
On February 3, 2016 the Free State Project announces reaching 20,000 signed Statements of Intent, officially “triggering the move” to New Hampshire.
2020
In Defiance of Lockdowns
FSP defies Covid doomers and holds outdoor PorcFest with hundreds of attendees
2023
New Leadership
On December 1, 2023, Maine Senator Eric Brakey was named the Executive Director of the Free State Project, bringing renewed focus and leadership to the organization.
2025
Growing Liberty in the Legislature
Following strong election victories, libertarians and classical liberals make up about one-quarter of NH House and one-sixth of NH Senate, according to NHLA data.
