http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071016/ap_ ... CpnnayFz4D

Tancredo files for New Hampshire primary
By PHILIP ELLIOTT, Associated Press Writer Tue Oct 16, 1:15 PM ET
CONCORD, N.H. - Republican presidential hopeful Tom Tancredo on Tuesday became the first nationally known candidate to secure a spot on New Hampshire's primary ballot.

The Colorado congressman and anti-immigration activist made the pilgrimage to the Statehouse, gave Secretary of State Bill Gardner a check for $1,000 and joined the growing list of presidential aspirants.

"Anything can happen in sports and in politics," said Tancredo, surrounded by a handful of supporters and reporters. "It takes a lot of heart, it takes a lot of guts, it takes a lot of commitment. We have all of that in this campaign, I will tell you."

Tancredo barely registers in polls in New Hampshire or nationally, but he is hoping his stance on the hot-button issue of immigration will help build support among conservatives.

Tancredo also trails in fundraising, a fact he joked about in the second floor office in the Statehouse.

"You sure we have the cash in the bank?" Tancredo said to nervous laughter. "It's not going to bounce?"

Tancredo slid up to an antique desk all presidential candidates use to put their name on the ballot. He borrowed a disposable black Bic pen to sign the one-page form.

"Wow. Just to write it down. 'Candidate for nomination for the office of president of the United States.' That's pretty heady stuff," Tancredo said.