As the nation turns its attention to the New Hampshire Primary, you may be wondering why it matters to people in the Natural State. While Arkansas may seem pretty distant from New Hampshire, Tuesday's outcome will have more than just a regional effect.

The frontrunner in the primary could shape the direction of the U.S., affecting issues and matters that hit close to home. Primary results set the tone for upcoming elections, including the Arkansas primary on March 5. Karen Sebold, a political science professor with the University of Arkansas, explained that the outcome in the New Hampshire Primary could play a role in how Arkansans vote come Super Tuesday.

"They're shaping who's going to be on the ballot, as well as kind of shaping what the issues that we're talking about, and we'll continue to talk about as the race continues," Sebold said.

The New Hampshire Primary serves as an important test for candidates as it is the first primary of the season. The results can have a significant impact on voter perceptions and the overall momentum of the race. While Arkansas may be far from the action, the outcome in New Hampshire will inevitably shape the political landscape and influence the choices of Arkansan voters in the upcoming primary election.