WARNER, N.H. - For Rahm Emanuel the route toward the presidency winds through the demanding slopes of rural New Hampshire.

The former Democratic representative, White House chief of staff, Chicago mayor and ambassador to Japan has not yet declared any intention to seek higher office in Washington. Still his recent journey across the state that hosts the opening presidential primary left little doubt about his intentions.

Union hall stops and small private gatherings formed the core of classic New Hampshire campaign traditions. During one backyard reception at a stately Concord residence Emanuel met voters and rehearsed remarks that stressed pressures facing middle-income families along with flaws in the current tax structure.

The bicycle excursion also stood out.

Across three days Emanuel covered more than 117 miles from the coastal city of Portsmouth to Hanover near the Vermont line on what he called the Spin-Free Tour. The name reflects his direct style which he views as a strength for Democrats seeking to recover after heavy defeats in 2024.

Tough times call for a tough leader Emanuel told The Associated Press during a pause at a Warner coffee shop. I do not believe this moment is simply about singing along to familiar tunes.

After nearly three decades near the center of political influence the 66-year-old finds himself without an obvious stage. Potential competitors are generally younger and hold positions as governors senators or a former vice president that allow easier access to media attention.

Despite his extensive background Emanuel remains relatively unknown beyond political circles. One woman inquired about his identity after he departed the coffee shop and upon learning of his possible candidacy asked A campaign for what.

Emanuel relies on his well-known determination to surmount these obstacles.

While many leading Democrats focus criticism on President Donald Trump Emanuel has issued numerous policy ideas covering social media restrictions for minors prediction markets and a required retirement age of 75 for public officials. Such a rule would bar him from pursuing reelection.

Emanuel travels frequently discussing education issues in Mississippi and Michigan. Next month he plans a trip to Israel to speak on bilateral relations amid ongoing divisions within both parties especially among younger voters.

He appears regularly on podcasts including those hosted by Katie Couric and Kara Swisher as well as programs centered on fly fishing. During these appearances he often criticizes his party for excessive focus on cultural matters particularly transgender rights. The centrist tone recalls the approach of Bill Clinton the first president he served.

We pursued policies that were truly absurd he remarked on a recent Couric podcast episode. Instead of concentrating on classroom quality we fixated on bathroom and locker room policies.

He also continues riding.

The tour allows him to showcase physical stamina amid concerns over aging political figures and to connect with the states discerning voters ahead of a larger field arriving after the November midterms.

It remains early said Rep. Maggie Goodlander D-N.H. who joined Emanuel at the Concord gathering. Yet New Hampshire voters understand how to evaluate candidates and represent the most attentive electorate nationwide.

Martha Kruse a 76-year-old retired special education teacher from Laconia exemplifies such engagement. She attended the Concord event after following Emanuel in media appearances.

I am leaving with genuine enthusiasm for him she noted adding that he was correct to begin preparations well in advance.

Presidential prospects felt distant during a demanding 20-mile segment on Saturday that featured more than 1,300 feet of elevation gain. Accompanied by friends and staff Emanuel passed homes where residents tended gardens or marked recent graduations. He conversed with the group at times and rode solo at others displaying ease on steep inclines.

With summer arriving in New England humidity rose and rain fell at intervals. The cyclists paused every 10 to 15 miles for refreshments once sheltering beneath a barn during a downpour. Local activists joined Emanuel at the Warner coffee shop where he spoke from a rocking chair.

Contemporary political realities intruded at moments. The route passed signs supporting Trump and criticizing Joe Biden. As miles accumulated a support vehicle followed with cameras recording footage for social media where Emanuel maintains frequent activity.

Midterm developments remained close. In nearby Maine Graham Platner faced scrutiny over past conduct toward women raising Democratic concerns about Senate prospects. Emanuel who aided the partys 2006 House gains said the outcome for Platner remains uncertain.

Everyone awaits clarity on whether this marks a beginning or conclusion he observed.

Amid debates over the partys direction Emanuel expressed confidence that moderate perspectives are gaining ground. He cited recent primary successes by Rebecca Bennett in New Jersey and Josh Turek in Iowa.

A larger element involves character rather than ideology he stated. Radical moderates demonstrate profiles that challenge entrenched systems which is precisely what the moment demands.

The bicycle journey differed from John McCains Straight Talk Express yet some voters expressed openness to Emanuel.

Don Daley a 60-year-old state employee from Concord observed Emanuel at the backyard event. He suggested Emanuel may ruffle feathers at times.

That quality may be exactly what is required now he added. Certain Democratic figures have shown insufficient resolve.