New Hampshire Presidential Watch

NH Stonewall Dems expand

2009-04-07T16:25:00.001-04:00

From the New Hampshire Democratic Party newsletter:

NEW HAMPSHIRE STONEWALL DEMOCRATS EXPANDING
Co-Chairs Allard and Morrison Announce Reorganization and Expansion

CONCORD- New Hampshire Stonewall Democrats co-chairs Gail Morrison of Sanbornton and Ed Allard of Laconia are pleased to announce the reorganization and expansion of the NH chapter of the Stonewall Democrats.

"In such an important and historic time, it is essential that the voices of the LGBT community are heard in Concord and across the entire state," said Co-Chair Ed Allard. "The NH Stonewall Democrats will work to make sure that our voices are heard."

The NH Stonewall Democrats will establish five regional groups and are looking for people across the state to act as regional coordinators responsible for helping develop a membership base, organizing regional political and social activities, acting as liaisons to and from the state organization, and to serve on the state steering committee.

Stonewall Democrats are politically active members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered (LGBT) community and their allies in NH. The group is designed to advocate for LGBT rights, issues, and concerns within the Democratic Party, before the legislature, and in their local communities. It also promotes an increasing LGBT participation in all elective and appointive areas of government by:

actively participating in Democratic party events and activities

identifying LGBT and LGBT-supportive candidates and assisting their campaigns and their efforts once elected.

promoting all candidates' and officeholders' awareness of, education on, and support for, issues of concern to the LGBT community.

working cooperatively with other LGBT organizations within the state, and with the national Stonewall Democratic organization.

participating in our towns and cities and providing social networking and gatherings for LGBT Democrats and our supporters.

NH Stonewall Democrats also welcome anyone who wants to be a member of this politically active, grassroots-based statewide organization. If interested, please contact Ed Allard or Gail Morrison at stonewallnh@gmail.com.

State senators to host fundraiser for Martin

2009-04-02T13:18:00.003-04:00

State Senators Sylvia Larsen (D-Concord), Maggie Hassan (D-Exeter) and Deb Reynolds (D-Plymouth) will be hosting a fundraising for state senate candidate Bud Martin (D-Center Sandwich). Martin is running in a special election for the senate district three seat.

U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-NH) will the fundraiser's special guest.

The fundraiser is scheduled for Sunday April 5th in Meredith.

White House highlights tax credit affects on Granite State

2009-04-01T13:35:00.001-04:00

From the White House:

500,000 New Hampshire working families to benefit from making work pay tax credit

300 million new dollars in the hands of New Hampshire workers

April 1, 2009

The United States faces the most severe economic and financial crisis in generations. Tragically, much of the damage has fallen principally on Main Street. To help middle-class families get back on their feet and restore some fairness to the tax code, President Obama in February signed one of his signature issues into law – the Making Work Pay tax credit. As a result, families across the country are seeing more money in their paychecks. This is one of the fastest and broadest tax cuts in American history.

Today, the Obama Administration is releasing a state-by-state analysis to show the impact the Making Work Pay tax credit is having across the country.

In New Hampshire that means 500,000 working families will collectively get $300 million in hand to help them weather the current economic storm. This reflects the Administration’s strong and sustained commitment to the middle class.

Nationally, the credit provides over 110 million working families—about 95%—the tax relief they need right now and will give nearly 60 billion dollars to America’s working families. The Republican alternative budget, announced today, would roll back these tax credits in 2010, thereby increasing taxes for the same 95 percent of working families.

NH GOP criticizes Martin’s campaign manager

2009-04-01T13:32:00.001-04:00

From the New Hamphire Republican Party:

Today, former New Hampshire Governor and Republican State Committee Chairman John H. Sununu released the following statement on Bud Martin’s campaign manager’s long history of dirty politics:

“Everyone wondered why the Democratic State Committee would bring in a political ‘hired gun’ to run a New Hampshire State Senate special election. Now we all know why. They brought in a specialist in campaigns based on personal attacks and distortion instead of discussion of the issues. We now find out that this political operative had been fired from a 2006 Minnesota campaign after doctoring a photograph in an attempt to portray the opponent – a decorated war veteran – as a Nazi. This Democrat strategy of basing the District 3 race on personal attacks now explains the almost comical performance of the Democrat candidate last Sunday on TV when he said he wouldn't discuss issues in the campaign because it would ‘send a postcard out in advance on everything he was going to do’ if elected to the Senate.

“Campaigns based on personal attacks and avoiding discussing the issues of taxes, spending, efficiency of government, and short-changing our cities and towns seems to be business as usual for the New Hampshire Democrats.”

Dems hit Bradley state House votes

2009-03-31T18:59:00.001-04:00

Before becoming a United States congressman former U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-NH) served in the New Hampshire House.

Now that Bradley is running for the state senate, Bradley’s opponent, Bud Martin (D-NH), is hitting Bradley’s voting record.

This from Martin’s campaign:

BRADLEY CONTINUES DOUBLE-TALK ON TAXES

District 3 state senate candidate's rhetoric does not match his record

Concord--It is clear that the voters can't trust Jeb Bradley when it comes to taxes. Jeb Bradley's campaign rhetoric does not reflect his long record of voting for taxes in the State House. While serving in the legislature, Bradley voted for significant increases in the cigarette tax, death tax, and communication tax. In addition, he voted to create the statewide property tax, and increase business enterprise taxes, business profits taxes, and real estate transfer taxes. He also voted for a constitutional amendment regarding a state-wide income tax to pay for education.

"Jeb Bradley's rhetoric does not match his record on taxes" said Joe Elcock, Campaign manager for Bud Martin for State Senate. "Jeb Bradley claims he will protect the tourist industry, small businesses and property taxpayers, but his record shows that he voted to increase taxes on all three. This is just another example of Jeb saying anything to get elected. He is a typical politician speaking in double-talk. The people of District 3 know they can't trust Jeb Bradley to follow through in the state senate."

JEB BRADLEY'S DOUBLE-TALK ON TAXES:

Jeb Bradley voted to increase the tobacco tax and imposing the tax on all types of tobacco products.- HB112, 1999
Jeb Bradley voted against repealing the death tax. -HB170, 2001
Jeb Bradley voted to increase the death tax in New Hampshire, taking the top rate from 15% to 18%. -HB40, 1991
Jeb Bradley voted to create the statewide property tax and increase the business enterprise, business profits and real estate transfer taxes. -HB 117, 1999
Jeb Bradley voted to double the state's communications tax. -HB 40, 1991
Jeb Bradley voted to increase gun licensing fees in the Granite State by 650%. -HB 110, 1991
Jeb Bradley voted against reducing the rooms and meals tax. -HB 1570, 1994
Jeb Bradley voted twice against requiring supermajorities to raise taxes.-HB 1245, 1996; HB 112, 1997
Jeb Bradley voted for a constitutional amendment that said that funds from a new STATE INCOME TAX should be used for education. -CACR 23, 2000

Shea-Porter, Bradley request fundraising donations

2009-03-31T18:55:00.000-04:00

While U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH) sends out a last minute fundraiser for her congressional PAC, former U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-NH) emailed supporters requesting donations for his state senate campaign.

Four years ago did Bradley ever imagine he would be running for a state senate seat and did Shea-Porter ever think she would be sending out a fundraising appeal for her congressional campaign?

From Shea-Porter:

Friend,

We have less than 6 hours until our important filing deadline. We need your help now more than ever!

I do not take money from lobbyists or business PACs, so that makes your contribution even more important.

Please CLICK HERE to give $25, $50 or whatever you can NOW.

Thank you again for your continued support.

From Bradley:

We are just 21 days from the special election for State Senate and I need your help. At a time when families are struggling to pay bills, the Democrats in Concord have been voting for tax increase after tax increase. They’ve proposed everything from nearly doubling the gas tax, hiking the rooms and meals tax, to the creation of a new capital gains tax and new death tax. While New Hampshire families are spending less, the Legislature supported a 17% spending increase in the previous budget. Now they are set to approve another budget with even more new big spending. It is time to say ENOUGH! The revenue simply cannot keep up with the spending and it is putting New Hampshire on the road to a sales or income tax, perhaps both.

On April 21st, voters will have a chance to send me to the State Senate. I will be a strong and effective voice against the over taxation of our citizens and increased spending of our government. I will be a loud advocate for small businesses and tourism industries. I live in the Lakes Region and understand the importance of tourism and as a former small business owner, I know first hand the critical role that small business plays in creating jobs.

To win this special election, I need your help. I need your help making phone calls and canvassing District 3, and I need your financial support as well. Please click here to volunteer for one of our phone banks and to help canvass District 3 and please click here to make your $1 dollar a day till the election, $21 dollar contribution today.

Thank You so much for your encouragement, support and friendship.

Garcia wins GOP primary

2009-03-25T12:50:00.002-04:00

From the NHGOP:

Today, former New Hampshire Governor and Republican State Committee Chairman John H. Sununu released the following statement on Marilinda Garcia’s victory in the Rockingham District 4 special election primary:

“Marilinda’s victory gives our Party a formidable and experienced nominee in the upcoming Rockingham District 4 special election. She will be a strong addition to the Republican voice in Concord that we need to save New Hampshire’s fiscal integrity and stop the foolishness coming through the Legislature. I congratulate Marilinda on her successful primary campaign and look forward to helping her win on April 28.”

Helms to be part of DNC primary commission

2009-03-24T13:52:00.002-04:00

Former New Hampshire Democratic Chairman Ned Helms is slated to be a member of a DNC commission that will look at possible changes to the 2012 presidential primary process.

Here is the release:

Today, Governor Tim Kaine, Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, announced the 37 member Democratic Change Commission, which will recommend changes to the Democratic Party’s rules for the 2012 presidential nominating and delegate selection process. Governor Kaine also announced that he has named Congressman James Clyburn of South Carolina and Senator Claire McCaskill of Missouri as Co-Chairs of the Change Commission.

“This Commission will focus on reform that improves the presidential nominating process to put voters first and ensure that as many people as possible can participate,” said Kaine. “I want to thank all the members of the Commission who have agreed to serve, including Congressman Clyburn and Senator McCaskill who have graciously agreed to serve as co-chairs.”

Governor Kaine went on to say that he hopes to work with the Republican National Committee on a common approach that puts voters first.

President Obama first announced his intention to form the Democratic Change Commission in August 2008, during his presidential campaign. Delegates to the Democratic National Convention adopted President Obama’s proposal on Monday, August 25, 2008.

The Democratic Change Commission will address three issues: 1) changing the window of time during which primaries and caucuses may be held 2) reducing the number of superdelegates and 3) improving the caucus system. A copy of the convention resolution establishing the Commission is below. The Commission must issue its report and recommendations to the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee no later than January 1, 2010.

The Commission is made up of 35 members and two co-chairs and represents a diverse mix of DNC members, elected officials, representatives of State Parties, academics, labor, business, grassroots activists and other Party leaders. A complete list of the Commission’s members is below.

Commission Members:

Former State Chair Ned Helms
Concord, New Hampshire

Shea-Porter says 'Now Way, No How!' in latest fundraising appeal

2009-03-18T20:16:00.002-04:00

U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter's latest fundraising appeal:

Friend,

The 2010 campaign should not be starting already, but it is. The Washington Republicans have said NO to President Obama, NO to the American agenda and NO to my re-election in 2010.

Several Republican opponents are now lined up at the gate to try to defeat me. And what is my response?

NO WAY, NO HOW!

The Party of “NO” cannot turn our country back. I need you to help right now to show them that you support this new American agenda and that you support me.

Please show them that we are strong and united by clicking HERE and sending a contribution TODAY.

Please speak up by contributing. They are listening and we need to send a clear message right now.

NO WAY, NO HOW do we want to see the party of “NO” back.

NH House committee passes medical marijuana bill

2009-03-18T17:06:00.000-04:00

From the New Hampshire House:

A House committee today recommended that the full House agree to let certain patients grow their own marijuana if their doctor recommends they use it to relieve certain medical conditions.
The so-called medical marijuana bill, House Bill 648, passed the House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee on a 13 to 7 vote after agreeing to an amendment on a 15 to 5 vote.
Among other things, the amendment restricts the number of patients one “designated caregiver” can assist to one, down from the five allowed in the original bill. It also identifies out-of-staters who qualify while in New Hampshire as “visiting qualified patients,” a status that is only good for 30 days.
Patients would be allowed to have two ounces of marijuana in their possession.
Those who support the bill said it will help patients who suffer from several conditions, including cancer, multiple sclerosis or other chronic or terminal diseases, and keep them from having to take narcotics.
Opponents said it violates federal law, which classifies marijuana as a Class 1 dangerous drug.
The bill will go to the full House during session next week.

Palin polling in NH?

2009-03-18T11:13:00.001-04:00

A blogger on Blue Hampshire is reporting that a friend received a robosurvey about Gov. Sarah Palin.

I haven’t heard anyone else receiving the same phone call but read the entire diary yourself at: Sarah Palin for President: It begins…with robopolling?

Shea-Porter decides against U.S. Senate run

2009-03-16T14:22:00.001-04:00

U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH) has announced that she will not run for the United States Senate in 2010.

Shea-Porter’s colleague, U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-NH), decided in early February that he would run for the Senate. With Shea-Porter, deciding not to enter the race the question now becomes whether or not another Democrat will enter the contest or will Hodes have the field all to himself.

Here are some statements on Shea-Porter’s decision:

Hodes: “I have the utmost admiration and respect for Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter. I see her stand up and fight for New Hampshire every day, serving alongside her in the House of Representatives. I am honored to call her my colleague and my friend and know she will continue to serve the people of New Hampshire with honor and distinction as their Congresswoman.”

NH GOP Chairman John H. Sununu: “I extend my condolences to Carol Shea-Porter. Although she is putting on a positive public face, I know that she must be very disappointed at having been forced out of a primary contest with Paul Hodes - especially since she probably would have beaten him.”

NHDP Chairman Ray Buckley: "Carol Shea-Porter is the best to ever represent the first district in Congress. Since her election back in 2006, no one has fought harder to protect working families, veterans and our children. She is an independent leader, and has a long record of providing real results for her constituents.

"With so much at stake, the people of the first district can take comfort in knowing that Carol Shea-Porter is their Congresswoman. I know she will continue to fight every day to better the lives of the people she serves."

Sununu on Bradley running in SD-3

2009-03-16T14:16:00.000-04:00

Former U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-NH) has officially decided to run in the special election in Senate District 3. Bradley will be running against Bud Martin (D-Center Sandwich).

Below is a statement from New Hampshire Republican Chairman John H. Sununu

“Jeb Bradley’s love for the State of New Hampshire is clearly demonstrated by his acceptance of the call to run for the State Senate in District 3. He understands that if we are to preserve the traditional values and fiscal integrity that have been the hallmark of New Hampshire, we need to strengthen the Republican ranks in the Legislature.

“Jeb Bradley will make a great State Senator and his voice will help fight against the increase in the room and meals tax, restore fair distribution of revenue to our communities and help maintain New Hampshire’s special environment.”

Preview of 2010?

2009-03-16T14:14:00.002-04:00

If you are interested in seeing a possible match-up of the 2010 gubernatorial race, you might be interested in this event:

The Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce will host Governor John Lynch and Mayor Frank Guinta on Wednesday, March 18th from 7:30 am to 9:30 am at the Derryfield Restaurant in Manchester at the Chamber’s Annual State of the State/City Breakfast Forum. This annual forum brings together business leaders and policy makers from across the Greater Manchester region to hear from the Governor and Mayor on the current state of New Hampshire and the City of Manchester. The Governor and Mayor will each deliver formal remarks for approximately 20 minutes and then answer questions from the audience.

A limited amount of tickets are still available for this event. To register contact the Chamber at 666-6600 or email customerservice@manchester-chamber.org. Tickets are $20 for Chamber members and $25 for non-members.

Bow power plant takes center-stage

2009-03-13T17:32:00.001-04:00

Today the New Hampshire State Senate heard testimony on a bill that would require PSNH to study the cost of installing a scrubber at the Merrimack State Power Plant.

PSNH is attempting to build a scrubber that would reduce the mercury levels it emits into the atmosphere, but critics say the scrubber is too expensive and wants PSNH to look into the possibility of using renewable energy sources.

The effort has become so political that well-known activist Gary Hirshberg posted an entry on the website Blue Hampshire and New Hampshire Republican Chairman John H. Sununu released a statement that criticizes the bill.

Here is the Hirshberg column: Do we really want to give Big Coal a Blank Check with Our Money?

Here is the Sununu statement:

“No matter how hard the Democrats try to sound like they have a constructive energy policy, their actions prove they are anti-energy, anti-growth and anti-jobs. The repeated attempts by the House and Senate liberals to force the Merrimack Station Power Plant out of business are perfect examples of the radical and destructive agenda that has been adopted by the New Hampshire Democrat Party. Their actions should serve as a clear indicator for anyone who doubted that the Democrat leadership supports the debilitation of the traditional power sources that supply the majority of New Hampshire residents with cheap and efficient energy.

“This effort to shutter the Merrimack Station is part of a larger effort by the national Democrat Party to abandon our domestic coal as a principal supply of energy. While liberal Democrats in Washington are pushing unreasonably high standards on trace mercury emissions, their comrades in Concord are attempting to implement conflicting restrictions that will make it impossible for the Merrimack Power Plant to meet those standards. We’ve seen the same strategy employed towards other reliable forms of energy such as oil and nuclear power, which Democrats have attempted to block with government regulations, superfluous lawsuits and unfounded scare tactics for the last thirty years.

“If one thing is clear it’s that the liberals in Concord will stop at nothing to implement their radical agenda regardless of the disastrous effects it will have on electrical bills or New Hampshire’s power supply. We can’t let them shut down 40% of New Hampshire’s supply of electricity. The Merrimack Station should be allowed to purchase and install environmental controls to meet the federal standards.”

NRCC leans on Shea-Porter over EFCA

2009-03-12T17:50:00.000-04:00

The NRCC has released a statement criticizing U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH) because she is a co-sponsor of the Employee Free Choice Act.

Here is the NRCC statement:

Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH) signed her name on the dotted line yesterday by co-sponsoring the so-called Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) – better known as “card-check.” In doing so, the New Hampshire Democrat signaled her support to strip workers of the right to a secret union ballot, a practice that leads to corruption and worker intimidation, not to mention its potential to kill jobs generated by small businesses. Shea-Porter's support of card-check is further proof that she has put the special interests of Big Labor that funded her campaign ahead of the needs of struggling working class families she regrettably misrepresents in Congress.

“By co-sponsoring card-check, Carol Shea-Porter has demonstrated her willingness to pay back union bosses at the expense of New Hampshire workers and their fundamental rights to a secret ballot,” said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. “Despite all of her rhetoric about wanting to create jobs for middle-class Americans, Shea-Porter is supporting this job-killing bill that threatens to make the workplace a site for corruption and coercion. Now, with unemployment continuing to climb, it’s time for Shea-Porter to explain why she has embraced the needs of the special interests that filled her campaign coffers at the expense of her own constituents.”

Demers to host annual St. Paddy's Day roast

2009-03-11T15:38:00.002-04:00

Powerful New Hampshire lobbyist Jim Demers shows ever year that everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day.

This year Demers will once again be hosting annual “New Hampshire Capital St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast & Roast.” Proceeds from the event go towards the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth.

This year special guest roasters include Governor John Lynch, Senate President Sylvia Larsen,
Senate Minority Leader Peter Bragdon, House Speaker Teri Norelli and House Minority Leader Sherm Packard.

State Rep. James Garrity will sing some Irish songs and their will be a performance by the Professional Fire Fighters Bagpipe Band

Hodes and Gregg on federal budget

2009-03-11T15:31:00.003-04:00

U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg and U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes has released statements about President Obama's budget. Below are the key parts from their statements.

U.S. Sen. Gregg remarks at yesterday’s Senate Budget Committee hearing on the President Obama’s FY10 Budget Proposal:

“The budget on balance spends too much, taxes too much and borrows too much, it’s that simple.”

“I do not argue with the fact that we are in a severe economic downturn…the government has had to step up with a massive injection, an historic injection, of liquidity to try to move the markets and move the economy forward, and that has cost money in the short-run and we accept that. The problem is that that effort to try to stabilize the economy has been used as a straw dog for the purposes of expanding the size of government in the out-years exponentially, moving the government to the left in a way that has never been projected or seen before, should it be successful.”

“The budget proposes about $1.4 trillion in new taxes over the next ten years, about $725 billion in new discretionary spending and $1.2 trillion in new mandatory spending and virtually no savings.”

Here is what U.S. Paul Hodes said before the House Budget Committee:

We have inherited a 1.4 trillion dollar deficit from the previous administration and have been forced to attempt the largest recovery effort since the Great Depression. Combined with the financial rescue package and other federal spending, the budget deficit will unavoidably reach a record high this year. This is a painful necessity which must be diligently addressed. In this historic economic crisis, we cannot afford government waste and spending on programs that won’t help us reach our national goals. As a result, we must be vigilant in promoting job creation, and rebuilding our economy by investing in infrastructure, education, a 21st century energy plan and health care reform. We must make a long term commitment to debt reduction and responsible long term spending. While decisive action has been and will be necessary, we must ensure that we are not saddling our children and grandchildren with unnecessary debt. After eight years of borrow and spend policies, we must not spend billions on wasteful government programs that will not create jobs and rebuild our economy.

I remain concerned that the President has proposed additional funding for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) for banks and institutions without additional oversight and transparency. TARP has lacked sufficient oversight and accountability from its outset, and in recent weeks we have seen new examples of abuse within the program. Due to lack of sufficient funding and lack of zeal by the Securities and Exchange Commission, they have not adequately enforced regulations and cracked down on Wall Street corruption. The Madoff ponzi scheme stands out as a flagrant example of failure of action by federal regulators.

Town meeting day round-up

2009-03-11T15:25:00.003-04:00

Zandra Rice Hawkins, from Granite State Progress, has a great round-up of stories from town meeting day.

Here is her story: Town Meeting Round-Up

Meanwhile, the New Hampshire Advantage Coalition released this statement about their success with spending cap warrants.

NHAC statement:

The call for controlled spending and efficient government from taxpayers across New Hampshire is getting louder and louder each election cycle. This year’s town meeting has proved to be no different. Tuesday’s resounding win in five of the six towns that spending cap warrant articles were on the ballot prove that taxpayers are tired of government continually reaching into their pockets and they are looking for relief. Spending cap warrants appeared on the ballot in the towns of Kingston, Hampstead, Allenstown, Salem, Hudson and Rindge. With only the Hudson warrant articles not passing.

“Taxpayers across this state are sending a clear message that an efficient government that spends their money wisely is the only path to lower taxes. We are facing very challenging times here in New Hampshire. The economy is down, property taxes are up, we have a record budget deficit on the state level and the federal government is spending at an unprecedented pace. Taxpayers are trying to control what they are closest to and that is their local government.” said Michael Biundo Chairman NHAC.

'Granny D' celebrates 99th birthday

2009-03-11T15:20:00.001-04:00

Press Release from Coalition for Open Democracy:

Doris "Granny D" Haddock Celebrates 99th Birthday at State House Today

Concord, NH – Doris "Granny D" Haddock was honored at a belated 99th birthday celebration today in the Executive Council Chamber of the New Hampshire State House. She was born in Laconia, New Hampshire on January 24, 1910.

Former Governor Walter Peterson emceed the event, which included remarks from Governor John Lynch, Senate President Sylvia Larsen, Executive Councilor Debora Pignatelli, Senators Martha Fuller Clark, Molly Kelly, Bette Lasky, House Election Law Committee Chair Jane Clemons, and other elected state officials and members of the public, who read commendations from Former President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalyn, U.S. Senators John McCain, Russ Feingold, Arlen Specter, Tom Harken, and Jeanne Shaheen, as well as Representatives Carol Shea-Porter and Paul Hodes, among others.

To a packed room of school children, senators and state representatives and members of the public, Granny D said, "The time for publicly funded elections has come, and people across the country are looking to New Hampshire to help lead the way." She cited a recent national poll by Lake Research Partners that showed 79% of voters think large contributions keep Congress from tackling pressing issues, and 67% support limited public funding for congressional candidates who agree to take no large contributions.

The celebration was sponsored by Coalition for Open Democracy (COD), a nonpartisan coalition of state organizations and individuals dedicated to ensuring integrity, transparency and efficiency in political and legislative processes in New Hampshire and the nation.

Group says EFCA would benefit Granite State

2009-03-10T15:21:00.002-04:00

A New Hampshire health care group says that the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) would help the state’s economy and workers.

“The bill could provide a major boost to the economy by helping workers share in the prosperity that they help create,” the group NH for Healthcare wrote in a press release. “A report released last month from the Center for American Progress showed that if even 5% more of New Hampshire’s workers joined unions, $82 million would be pumped into the state’s economy each year.”

According to the group, The Employee Free Choice Act “restores the option of ‘majority sign-up,’ in addition to elections, to ensure that workers, not employers decide how to form a union. That is, when a majority of workers sign cards saying they want to form a union, this legislation levels the playing field so they have a fair chance to do so. It creates meaningful penalties for employers who break the law to harass or fire workers. It ensures that workers have a fair chance at winning a contract guaranteeing their wages and benefits.”

In New Hampshire labor organizations such as the New Hampshire AFL-CIO, AFSCME, SEIU, and NEA, as well as community organizations – the New Hampshire Citizens Alliance, Sierra Club, Granite State Organizing Project, and Working Families Win are helping to push support for EFCA.

Congressman Paul Hodes Introduces Legislation to Preserve White House Records

2009-03-10T15:20:00.001-04:00

From U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes:

Congressman Paul Hodes, member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, introduced legislation, H.R. 1387, the Electronic Message Preservation Act that would require the White House to preserve all electronic communications. Today, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee marked up the legislation and passed it by a voice vote.

The legislation resulted from an investigation conducted by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee that revealed significant deficiencies in the preservation of e-mail by the White House and federal agencies. The measure was introduced last year by Congressman Paul Hodes, Chairman Henry Waxman and Congressman Lacy Clay. It passed the House of Representatives last year but stalled in the Senate.

“The people of the United States deserve an open and honest record of the actions of all administrations, regardless of party,” Congressman Paul Hodes said. “This bill will ensure that actions taken by the Executive Branch are transparent and that they can be held accountable to the public.”

Bradley itches towards run

2009-03-09T23:35:00.001-04:00

Former U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-NH) has established a political action committee for the senate district three special election.

Bradley has not publicly declared that he is running but establishing a PAC could show that Bradley intends to run.

The PAC, titled “Friends of Jeb Bradley for State Senate,” is chaired by Bradley and Republican activist Eugene Leone Jr. is the treasurer.

Democrat Bud Martin officially entered the race on Monday. Martin ran in 2008 but lost to Bill Denley, who resigned the seat after being charged with drunk driving.

If there is no primary the election will take place on April 21st, but if there is a primary challenge on either side of the aisle the primary will take place on April 21st and the general election will be on May 26th.

Martin set to kickoff campaign

2009-03-08T21:14:00.001-04:00

Bud Martin will officially kickoff his campaign on March 9th.

Martin is running in the special election in Senate District 3. He ran for the same seat in 2008 against Bill Denley, who resigned last month after being arrested on a DWI charge.

Martin will launch his campaign at his campaign headquarters in Wolfeboro.

Dems establish special election fund

2009-03-08T21:11:00.001-04:00

The New Hampshire Democratic Party has established a special election fund to help Bud Martin’s state senate campaign and a candidate running for state representative.

Martin is running in senate district 3 and is expected to face former U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-NH). The special election is expected to take place on April 21st.

“Bud Martin is gearing up to run again in State Senate District 3. Bud ran for the seat in 2008 and lost by a very narrow margin,” a NHDP newsletter states. “Bud is a former NH District Court Judge and is currently an attorney and small business owner. He's ready to join Governor Lynch in making responsible and compassionate fiscal decisions and helping New Hampshire's working families through these difficult economic times.”

The newsletter continues, “We hear that Jeb Bradley, who lost the Congressional District TWICE to Carol Shea-Porter, will run for the seat, and we need your help to ensure that Bradley does not bring his George Bush style Washington politics to the State House!”

The Democratic Party is also preparing to help Sheila Murray, who is running in a special election for the House. Murray is running for the seat that represents Salem and Windham.

“In Rockingham County, Sheila Murray, of Salem, is the Democratic candidate for State Representative. Sheila is a Salem native and has been involved in her community for many years. She is a former educator and children's librarian and Sheila has served as supervisor of the checklist in Salem for over 30 years. This is Sheila's first run for state representative and is very excited about the opportunity to serve the people of Salem and Windham in the State House.”

The Rockingham County District 4 primary election will take place on March 24th and the general election will take place on April 28th.

Horn: ‘absolutely, very seriously considering a run’

2009-03-08T20:52:00.001-04:00

Former congressional candidate Jennifer Horn (R-NH) is “absolutely, very seriously considering” running for political office in 2010, The Keene Sentinel is reporting.

Horn, who ran unsuccessful for congress in 2008, said that she is leaning towards running for the Second Congressional District seat but has not ruled out running for another office.

“But that doesn’t mean, as a lot of people have tried to suggest, that I’m going to run against Paul Hodes for Senate,” The Sentinel reports. “I’m more strongly considering a run for the House, but I have not decided against anything. It is highly likely I’ll run, but it is notdefinite.”

Horn was defeated by U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-NH), who has decided to run for the United States Senate in 2010.

Horn also said that will be hosting a radio show on WSMN starting April 6.

Buckley: 'Jeb Bradley is not fooling anyone' in SD-3 race

2009-03-06T13:41:00.002-05:00

New Hampshire Democratic Party Chairman Ray Buckley has released on a statement on the news that former U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-NH) will run in the special election for senate District 3.

Former New Hampshire Republican Chairman Fergus Cullen has decided that he will not run for the seat and former state Sen. Joe Kenney (R-Wakefield) announced that he is being deployed to Afghanistan next week.

Bradley will be running against Bud Martin (D-Sandwich), who ran unsuccessfully for the seat in November. The District 3 seat became vacant when Bill Denley (R-Wakefield) resigned after being charged with a DWI two weeks ago.

Buckley’s release:

"Jeb Bradley is not fooling anyone. In November, the voters of District 3 once again rejected his candidacy for public office. I am convinced they will do the same this time as well.

"The voters of District 3 know that while in Washington, Jeb was among the biggest enablers of George W Bush's failed economic policies. He has voted for record deficits and drunken-sailor spending. He is the reason we are in this financial mess.

"The people of District 3 know they can't afford Jeb Bradley in the state senate. They need someone who will work to find real solutions to the serious economic problems we are facing. Jeb has a well-known record of putting politics before the people he represents.

Shaheen uses health care meeting to raise money

2009-03-06T13:37:00.001-05:00

After attending President Obama’s Health Care Summit, U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) emailed supporters telling them about the meeting and asking for a donation to her campaign committee.

Here is a snippet of that fundraising email:

Yesterday, I attended President Obama's Health Care Summit at the White House. I can't tell you how honored I was to be a part of this historic meeting.

You joined my campaign for U.S. Senate to help move America in a new direction. We're working everyday to make that change a reality. We're off to a good start.

After years of inaction, our government is ready to tackle some of the great challenges facing our nation. From reforming health care to investing in clean energy to fixing our economy, I'm proud to be working with the President and my colleagues in Congress to put us on a new path.

And, I know that I wouldn't be here without you. I hope I can count on your continued support to fight for the values that we share.

NRCC goes after Shea-Porter on housing vote

2009-03-06T13:32:00.002-05:00

From the NRCC:

Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH) voted last night against protecting millions of Americans who played by the rules, including thousands of her constituents. The motion that she voted against would have prohibited those who lied on mortgage applications from receiving taxpayer assistance. Instead, Shea-Porter has voted along with her party bosses in Washington to reward dishonest borrowers, unscrupulous lenders, and speculators (House Roll Call 103).

Specifically, Shea-Porter voted against a motion that would prohibit taxpayer funds from being used:

to assist anyone who lied about their income or assets on their mortgage application;
to assist any lender that failed to follow proper underwriting standards;
as incentives to lenders to rework loans for irresponsible borrowers;
unless the President submits a plan that provides equitable treatment of all mortgage holders.

“Any middle-class family will tell you that rewarding bad behavior is the last thing that will get this economy moving again, but it’s clear that Carol Shea-Porter and her Washington Democrat friends disagree,” said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain. “While homeowners are struggling to pay for their mortgages, Shea-Porter refused to stand up to the irresponsible speculators and lenders that contributed to our current housing crisis. If Carol Shea-Porter is fighting for the dishonest characters that got us in this mess, who is fighting for her constituents who played by the rules?”

Shea-Porter Joins E9-1-1 Caucus

2009-03-05T16:18:00.000-05:00

From U.S. Rep. Shea-Porter's office:

Today, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter announced that she has joined the Congressional E9-1-1 Caucus. The Caucus, which was established in 2003, seeks to educate lawmakers, constituents, and communities about the importance of citizen-activated emergency response systems.

“Ensuring our citizens have access to enhanced 9-1-1 is a vital public safety issue,” said Congresswoman Shea-Porter. “I am pleased to be a member of this important Caucus and am excited about the work ahead.”

“The mission of the E9-1-1 Caucus is to advance E9-1-1 and emergency communications across the country,” said E9-1-1 Institute Executive Director Gregory Rohde. “I applaud Congresswoman Shea-Porter for her interest in this critical issue and look forward to working with her.”

NH Dems want Sununu to resign from TARP oversight panel

2009-03-04T16:05:00.002-05:00

From the New Hampshire Democratic Party:

Concord- NHDP Chairman Ray Buckley today called on John E. Sununu to step-down from the Congressional Oversight Panel charged with monitoring the government's TARP program.

Sununu, who was appointed to the taxpayer funded position on the TARP panel after losing re-election to the U.S. Senate back in November, just recently joined the board of ConvergEx. 33% of the ConvergeEx stock is owned by the Mellon Bank. The Mellon bank has received over 3 billion in TARP funds. In addition to getting billions in taxpayer dollars, the Mellon Bank was chosen last October to help the Treasury Department administer the TARP program.

"John Sununu needs to resign from the TARP Panel immediately" said NHDP Chair Ray Buckley. "This is a glaring conflict of interest"

ConvergEx Holdings is actually the third board of managers that Sununu has joined in the past few weeks. The two others include Time Warner Cable and Boston Scientific, both of which offer lucrative financial compensation for his service. Sununu is also being paid his former US Senate salary on a per diem rate as a member of the TARP panel.

Ayotte nominated for another term…what next?

2009-03-03T18:20:00.001-05:00

New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch is set to nominate Attorney General Kelly Ayotte, for another term.

Ayotte, who many consider a rising Republican star, has held the position since 2004.

The news of her renomination raises an interesting question…what next?

Many Republicans are quietly hoping that Ayotte considers running for governor in 2010, possibly against Lynch, or for congress.

Questions:

-Does her renomination mean that Ayotte is not interested in running for elective office in 2010?
-Did Ayotte talk too New Hampshire Republican Chairman John H. Sununu? If so, what did Sununu say?
-What is Manchester Mayor Frank Guinta thinking about this news?

Political Library Announces 2009 New Hampshire Primary Awards Honorees

2009-02-25T12:19:00.001-05:00

From the NH Political Library:

The New Hampshire Political Library is pleased to announce this year’s honorees to be recognized Monday, March 30th at the 2009 New Hampshire Primary Awards:

Mr. Paul Begala: a senior strategist for President Clinton’s 1992 presidential campaign and currently political contributor for CNN and Affiliated Professor of Public Policy at Georgetown University's Public Policy Institute

Mr. Mike Murphy: a senior strategist for Senator John McCain’s 2000 presidential campaign and currently political contributor for NBC and MSNBC News; and

Ms. Kelly O’Donnell: NBC News correspondent covering the presidential campaigns of Senator Bob Dole in 1996, Senator John Kerry in 2004 and the Republican field in 2008 and currently Capitol Hill Correspondent.

The 2009 New Hampshire Primary Awards will take place Monday, March 30, 2009 at the Radisson Hotel in downtown Manchester. Dinner Table Sponsorships begin at $2,500 and admission for individual guests is $125. For more information about attending, please call the Political Library at 225-4617, extension 11.

Former McCain supporter indicted on fraud charges

2009-02-20T18:03:00.002-05:00

A former New Hampshire supporter of U.S. Sen. John McCain has been indicted on misdemeanor charges relating to mileage reimbursements.

Richard Brothers, head of the Department of Employment Security, has been accused of filing reimbursement forms for trips that he did not make.

“For each month between August 2007 and May 2008, the informations charge that Richard Brothers knowingly made a written false statement, which he did not believe to be true, with a purpose to deceive a public servant in the performance of his or her official function, by submitting travel vouchers for reimbursement for mileage and tolls and attesting to trips he had not actually taken, thereby causing the State to reimburse him for mileage and toll expenses he had not actually incurred for the dates and/or locations stated on the travel vouchers,” reads the indictment from New Hampshire Attorney General Kelly Ayotte.

Brothers was an alternative delegate, for McCain, to the Republican National Convention in 2008 and served on McCain’s Belknap County leadership committee during the New Hampshire presidential primary.

Gov. John Lynch (D-NH) said that Brothers should immediately resign.

“These are very serious charges that result from a thorough investigation by the Attorney General's Office. I call on Richard Brothers to resign,” Lynch said in a press release. “I have also directed Richard Brothers not to enter any Employment Security facility, effective immediately.”

Shea-Porter viewed more favorable than Hodes, among NH Dems

2009-02-20T16:02:00.001-05:00

A new University of New Hampshire poll shows that both of New Hampshire’s U.S. Senators enjoy high favorable ratings.

The poll also shows that U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH) has a higher favorable rating than U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-Rochester). Hodes announced earlier this month that he would run for the United States Senate in 2010 and Shea-Porter is also considering running for the seat.

According to the poll, “Shea-Porter is well positioned in a primary battle with Hodes, as 61% of Democrats view Shea-Porter favorably compared to 50% for Hodes. However, Shea-Porter is viewed much more unfavorably by Republicans than Hodes is, with 50% of Republicans having an unfavorable opinion of Shea-Porter compared to 28% for Hodes.”

“Democrats have a difficult choice between Carol Shea-Porter and Paul Hodes,” said Andrew Smith, Director of the UNH Survey Center, in a press release. “Hodes looks to be better positioned for a general election, but Shea-Porter appeals more strongly to their party’s liberal base.”

The poll has U.S. Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Judd Gregg (R-NH) with high favorability ratings.

Granite Staters gave Gregg a favorability rating of 64 percent, while 15 percent have an unfavorable rating of the senior United States Senator. The poll was taken before Gregg withdrew his name from consideration for the Secretary of Commerce post.

Shaheen is viewed favorably by 56 percent of poll respondents and 32 percent had unfavorable view of Shaheen.

HuckPac launches in Granite State

2009-02-17T17:20:00.001-05:00

Supporters of former Gov. Mike Huckabee have started a local chapter of Huckabee’s national political action committee.

David Hurst and Bob Burns, both of whom represented Huckabee at the Republican National Convention, have started HuckPac NH.

Hurst and Burns will be launching the organization with a house party on February 26th.

Huckabee unsuccessfully ran for president in 2008 but is often mentioned has a potential candidate in 2012.

Guinta takes on Lynch over budget

2009-02-13T15:51:00.000-05:00

Manchester Mayor Frank Guinta is criticizing Gov. John Lynch (D-NH) over Lynch’s proposed budget cuts and changes to the room-and-meals tax.

Guinta, a potential gubernatorial candidate in 2010, said he is “deeply troubled” by Lynch’s budget.

“I am deeply troubled that the Governor’s Office does not understand the real problems that this budget proposal lays on the backs of the cities and towns of New Hampshire,” Guinta said. “In his budget, Gov. Lynch asks communities to forego funds that they have used as part of their budget for nearly 40 years. In exchange, he is asking them to use one-time ‘stimulus to cover the revenue shortfall. For the Governor’s Office to dismiss these concerns with the phrase ‘It’s a trade-off’ shows shocking ignorance about their own budget proposal and its consequences. Assuming federal funds arrive on time, as promised by the Governor, there remains no plan for replenishing those funds in the following biennium.”

According to Guinta, “the proposed budget would create a $9.6 million revenue hole in the city’s FY10 budget and a $2.4 million deficit in the current FY09 budget.”

Guinta also said that he would like to organize a meeting of the state’s mayors to discuss the state budget.

Shea-Porter starts ‘Populist Caucus’

2009-02-13T15:46:00.000-05:00

U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter’s (D-NH) office has announced that she is a founding member of a new congressional caucus.

According to a press release the Populist Caucus, “is devoted solely to addressing middle class issues.”

The caucus will fight for legislation that will, “provide fair wages, proper benefits, and a level playing field at the negotiating table,” and “ensure American workers have secure, solvent retirement plans.”

“Our country does best with a thriving middle class,” said Shea-Porter in a statement. “I am proud to be a founding member of the Populist Caucus and will fight for middle class tax cuts, affordable health care, and fair trade practices.”

Party chairs on Gregg withdrawal

2009-02-12T17:40:00.000-05:00

New Hampshire Democratic Party Chairman Ray Buckley and New Hampshire Republican Party Chairman John H. Sununu has released statements on U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg’s decision to withdraw his nomination for the top Commerce post.

Sununu on Gregg:

"Senator Gregg made it clear in his statement and his conference call why he felt he should withdraw his name from consideration for Secretary of Commerce, and his decision confirms that he is a man of principle and commitment. I wish him and Kathy nothing but the best in the future."

Buckley on Gregg:

"At a time when it appeared that Senator Judd Gregg was going to put aside partisan politics to work with the president on fixing our economy, he has instead decided that being in lock-step with conservative Washington Republicans is more important than finding solutions to these serious problems.

"We need leaders in Washington who are going to roll-up their sleeves and work across the aisle to fix our broken economy. The fact that Senator Gregg has withdrawn his name from consideration because of his objection to a recovery package that that will help jump start our economy, create millions of new jobs, and provide broad tax cuts for working Americans is simply out of touch.

"It has been clear from the beginning of this process that Judd Gregg no longer has an interest in serving the people of New Hampshire in the United States Senate."

Hodes hits Gregg over nomination withdrawal

2009-02-12T17:18:00.000-05:00

U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-NH) has released a statement that is critical of U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg’s (R-NH) decision to withdraw his nomination to be the Secretary of Commerce.

Below is the Hodes statement:

“I am surprised and disappointed at this sudden withdrawal. Senator Gregg would take us back to the years of George W. Bush rather than moving forward with the change agenda that the American people clearly want. I will continue to work with President Obama to create jobs and rebuild our economy for the middle class.

I will be a candidate for the United State Senate in 2010. I look forward to working every day to stand up for New Hampshire as we come together to confront the economic crisis facing our nation.”

Gregg withdraws, what is next?

2009-02-12T17:16:00.000-05:00

Now that U.S. Sen. Judd (R-NH) has decided to withdraw his nomination to become the next Secretary of Commerce, here are some questions worth considering.

-Did Gregg receive any pressure to withdraw from GOP leaders?
-Who did Gregg contact after he made his decision? What did they tell Gregg?
-What does Bonnie Newman think? What does John Lynch think?
-How does this affect U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes decision to run for the United States Senate?

NRSC airs web ad against Hodes

2009-02-12T17:06:00.000-05:00

The NRSC has a new web ad that criticizes U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes support for the stimulus bill.

According to the NRSC, “The video highlights U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes’ (D-NH) support for the largest tax increase in American history, as well as this year’s massive spending bill, which adds over one trillion dollars to the federal debt and contains many egregious examples of wasteful spending, including $335 million for STD prevention and $150 million for honeybee insurance. As he prepares for his 2010 U.S. Senate bid, Hodes will be forced to explain these fiscally irresponsible votes to Granite State voters.”

Hodes announced earlier this month that he would run for the United States Senate next year.

NRCC targets Shea-Porter

2009-02-12T17:05:00.001-05:00

The NRCC has begun airing a radio ad against U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH).

“While middle-class families are hurting and looking to their leaders for help, Carol Shea-Porter has failed to deliver real relief,” said NRCC Communications Director Ken Spain in a press release. “Carol Shea-Porter had a choice to pass an alternative proposal that would have created twice as many jobs at half the cost and in less time, but she chose to pass this package of pork instead. After running on a platform of fiscal responsibility, Carol Shea-Porter now has the obligation to explain why she’s willing to pile even more mountains of debt onto our grandchildren without regard for how middle-class families’ hard-earned tax dollars will be spent.”

Lynch 'respects' Gregg's decision

2009-02-12T17:01:00.001-05:00

Gov. John Lynch (D-NH) said that he “respects” U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg’s decision to withdraw his nomination for Commerce Secretary.

"I very much respect Senator Gregg's decision to withdraw and stay in the U.S. Senate,” Lynch said in a statement.

Lynch also said thanked Bonnie Newman, the woman Lynch selected to fill Gregg’s seat.

"I want to thank Bonnie Newman for her willingness to serve. She is a great public servant, who I am confident will continue to make important contributions to our state and our nation."

Gregg withdraws nomination

2009-02-12T16:58:00.000-05:00

U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH) has announced that he is withdrawing his nomination to become the next Secretary of Commerce.

Gregg said in a press release that he has “irresolvable conflicts” with President Obama over the stimulus bill and the attempt to have the White House oversee the Census.

Below are excerpts from the Gregg release:

“I want to thank the President for nominating me to serve in his Cabinet as Secretary of Commerce. This was a great honor, and I had felt that I could bring some views and ideas that would assist him in governing during this difficult time. I especially admire his willingness to reach across the aisle.

“However, it has become apparent during this process that this will not work for me as I have found that on issues such as the stimulus package and the Census there are irresolvable conflicts for me. Prior to accepting this post, we had discussed these and other potential differences, but unfortunately we did not adequately focus on these concerns. We are functioning from a different set of views on many critical items of policy.”

Gregg added, “As a further matter of clarification, nothing about the vetting process played any role in this decision. I will continue to represent the people of New Hampshire in the United States Senate.”

Sununu take over of NH GOP now complete

2009-02-12T00:13:00.001-05:00

If you worked for former U.S. Sen. John Sununu’s campaign, there is a good chance you could get a job working for the New Hampshire Republican Party.

John DiStaso reported that Ryan Williams, Sununu’s former campaign communications director, has been hired to fill the same post for the state party.

Shortly after former Gov. John H. Sununu became chair of the New Hampshire Republican Party, DiStaso reported that former Sununu campaign staffers BJ Perry, Paul Collins and Andy Leach were all volunteering for the state party.

It now appears that the Sununu take over of the state party is now complete.

The House always wins

2009-02-11T20:57:00.001-05:00

The UNH Survey Center has released a new poll exploring public sentiment over expanded gaming and the current budget crisis.

According to the poll:

“The only revenue option that is somewhat politically popular is expanding legal gambling – 41% say they would be more likely to vote for a State Senate candidate who favored legalized gambling, 37% said they would be more likely to vote against, 18% said it would make little difference in their vote, and 4% don’t know.

There has been little change in how New Hampshire adults feel about these issues over the past 10 years. The biggest difference is the percentage who said any of these revenue options would make no difference on their vote has declined, an indication that people have thought more about their options during the current crisis.”

When dealing with this issue remember that the House always wins.

I am woman, hear me roar

2009-02-11T20:48:00.001-05:00

U.S. Reps. Paul Hodes (D-NH) and Carol Shea-Porter has introduced a resolution that would honor the New Hampshire State Senate.

From the release:

Congressman Paul Hodes introduced a U.S. House resolution today honoring the New Hampshire State Senate for becoming the first legislative body in America to have a majority female membership. He was joined by his New Hampshire colleague Congresswoman Carol Shea Porter, who was an original cosponsor of the bill.

The New Hampshire State Senate has 9 women chairing committees and has a membership comprised of 13 women and 11 men.

New Hampshire is also the first state where legislative leaders in both chambers are female. Speaker Terrie Norelli is the first female Speaker of the State House and Mary Jane Wallner serves as the House Majority Leader. Sylvia Larsen is President of the State Senate with Maggie Hassan serving as the Majority Leader.

Shea-Porter appointed to nature subcommittees

2009-02-09T16:32:00.002-05:00

From U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter's (D-NH) office:

Today, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter announced that she has been appointed to two subcommittees on the Natural Resources Committee: the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans, and Wildlife, and the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands.

“I wanted to serve on these two important subcommittees so I can help protect New Hampshire and the nation’s natural resources,” said Congresswoman Shea-Porter.

The Insular Affairs, Oceans, and Wildlife Subcommittee has jurisdiction over the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Fish and Wildlife Programs. Congresswoman Shea-Porter will focus on protecting New Hampshire's maritime treasures and shoreline. As a member of the National Parks, Forest, and Public Lands Subcommittee, Shea-Porter will help protect public lands and national forests, including the White Mountain National Forest.

Nadeau 2010?

2009-02-09T16:31:00.000-05:00

Former state Supreme Court Justice Joe Nadeau is considering running for the United States Senate in 2010.

Nadeau, a Democrat, would be the second Democrat to announce they are running for the senate. U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-NH) said last week that he would be running to fill the seat being vacated by U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH).

“President Obama has challenged everybody to think beyond their usual routine to see what their contribution can be, and I’m going to see whether there’s something I can do beyond the judiciary," Nadeau told Politico.

Politico also reported that, “The website Nadeau2010.com was registered over the weekend to ‘Nadeau for Senate.’”

Jam on!

2009-02-04T14:38:00.005-05:00

U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-NH) has announced that he will be running for the United States Senate in 2010.

Hodes will be running to fill the seat being vacated by U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH), who has been tapped to be Secretary of Commerce. Gregg’s replacement, U.S. Sen.-designate Bonnie Newman (R-NH) has said she will not run in 2010.

“It is with the stories of people like Anne Marie Morse, Chris Howe, and thousands of New Hampshire families struggling in this difficult economy in mind that I announce today that I will run for the United States Senate in 2010 to continue to keep our state and our nation moving forward,” Hodes wrote on the website Blue Hampshire.

Hodes said that he will formally announce his candidacy sometime over the next couple of months.

Former U.S. Rep. Charlie Bass (R-NH) told the Concord Monitor that he is interested in running for the seat and former U.S. Sen. John E. Sununu (R-NH) is often mentioned as a possible candidate. The Monitor also floated the names of New Hampshire Attorney General Kelly Ayotte and Jim Merrill, as potential candidates.

The Union Leader reported yesterday that Katrina Swett will run for Hodes’ congressional seat in 2010.

Sununu on Newman

2009-02-03T17:10:00.000-05:00

NH GOP Chairman John H. Sununu on Bonnie Newman's appointment:

“I want to congratulate Bonnie Newman on her appointment to the United States Senate. I am confident that her vast experience in both the public and private sector will serve her well and benefit the people of New Hampshire. Bonnie is a dear friend of mine and I look forward to working with her in her new role as United States Senator.”

Newman’s from that state to the south

2009-02-03T16:51:00.001-05:00

Will Granite State Republicans be more upset about Bonnie Newman calling herself a “moderate” or the fact that she was raised in Massachusetts?

A moderate Republican from the Bay State, we can already hear the jokes.

What about Hodes?

2009-02-03T13:01:00.001-05:00

The Union Leader is reporting that U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-NH) will announce “within the week” that he will run for the United States in 2010.

Hodes will be running for the seat that is being vacated by U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg, who is slated to become the next Secretary of Commerce.

Hodes was elected to a second term in November and said a month ago that he was “seriously considering” running for the senate.

Here are a couple of things to consider about Hodes’ announcement:

-Does this deter other Democrats from joining the race?
-Did he make this decision with a blessing from Ray Buckley?
-Did he talk with Carol Shea-Porter?
-Who will be the first Republican to announce they are running for the seat?
-Who will John H. Sununu call over the next week?

Hodes, Shea-Porter on Gregg leaving senate

2009-02-03T12:42:00.000-05:00

U.S. Reps. Paul Hodes and Carol Shea-Porter have released statements on U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg’s nomination to be the next Secretary of Commerce.

Hodes on Gregg:

“President Obama promised to turn the page and enter a new post partisan era. His appointment today of Senator Gregg shows his commitment to that goal. Senator Gregg has a long history of service to New Hampshire and the appointment today is good news for the State of New Hampshire as we now can expect to have a strong advocate for our state in the cabinet. I will continue to work with our Governor, congressional delegation, Senator Gregg in his new role, and President Obama to rebuild our economy and create jobs.”

Shea-Porter on Gregg:

“President Obama has placed someone who has a deep knowledge of New Hampshire in his cabinet. I wish Senator Gregg well and look forward to working with the Administration to help New Hampshire.”

Sununu, Buckley on Gregg's nomination

2009-02-03T12:29:00.001-05:00

Below are statements from both John H. Sununu, New Hampshire Republican chairman, and Ray Buckley, New Hampshire Democratic Chairman.

Sununu on Gregg:

“I join all New Hampshire residents in thanking Senator Gregg for 28 years of dedicated public service. I know he will carry his high quality of performance and integrity into his new position. Judd is an old friend and we wish him well in this next phase of his distinguished career. I extend my heartfelt wishes for a speedy confirmation and know that his continued commitment to our country will make New Hampshire proud.

When I answered the call to take over as the Republican Party Chairman in New Hampshire, I knew that there was a very real possibility that Senator Gregg would not run for re-election in 2010. I had to make plans knowing that the seat may be open in the next election cycle. We have kept that in mind throughout this process and I’m confident that 2010 will still be a very good year for Republicans in New Hampshire.”

Buckley on Gregg:

"We are in the midst of financial catastrophe. President Obama was elected to lead and deliver results for the American people, and to go beyond partisan politics to find real solutions to our nation's economic problems. He has nominated Senator Gregg to help him in his effort to rebuild America's economy, and we trust his judgment and support his decision.

"Governor Lynch has decided to stand with the White House and the Senate Majority Leadership at this time of national economic crisis, and we are grateful that we have strong and results-oriented leaders like President Obama and Governor Lynch."

"We look forward to healthy competition for an open Senate seat in 2010. Party registration in New Hampshire has changed significantly in recent years to favor Democrats, and we are confident in our ability to elect a strong Democrat to the seat."

Gregg accepts Commerce nomination

2009-02-03T12:27:00.000-05:00

U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH) has accepted a nomination to become the next Secretary of Commerce. Gregg said yesterday that he decided to accept the post only after Gov. John Lynch (D-Hopkinton) said he would a Republican to fill Gregg’s seat.

Here are some excerpts from Gregg’s press release:

“Today, I have been nominated by President Obama to serve in his administration as Secretary of Commerce, and I want to thank the President for this extraordinary opportunity. I have accepted this post, and the call to help address the momentous and significant economic challenges facing our nation.

“Kathy and I want to thank the people of New Hampshire for affording me the privilege to serve them in the U.S. Senate for the past 16 years. It has been an honor for both of us to work on behalf of Granite Staters and represent their priorities in Washington, and to do our part to help make our state a better place to live and raise a family. I also thank my Senate colleagues for their leadership, support and friendship as we continue to work toward solutions to help address families’ concerns about their retirement savings, their homes, and their futures.”

He also said:

“It is my goal to help the President put America back on the path to prosperity. This is not a time for politics—it is a time to lead. We must put aside partisanship and ideologies and govern effectively so that we can pass onto our children and our grandchildren a government that works and a nation that is strong.

Buckley open to possible senate deal

2009-02-02T17:58:00.002-05:00

The chairman of the New Hampshire Democratic Party has issued a statement that leaves the door open to the possibility that Gov. John Lynch (D-NH) could appoint a Republican to fill U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg’s (R-NH) senate seat.

Earlier today, both Lynch and Gregg issued statements that said Gregg would accept a nomination to be Commerce Secretary, only if Lynch appoints a Republican.

Ray Buckley’s full statement:

"President Obama was elected to lead and deliver results for the American people, and to go beyond partisan politics to find real solutions to our nation's economic problems. If he determines that Senator Gregg is essential to his effort to rebuild America's economy, then we should trust his judgment and support his decision.

"Governor Lynch has decided to stand with the President at this time of national economic crisis, and we are grateful that we have two strong and results-oriented leaders like President Obama and Governor Lynch. If President Obama does appoint Senator Gregg as Commerce Secretary, I am confident Governor Lynch will replace him with someone who will put New Hampshire and its people first, and work with the Obama Administration, Senator Shaheen, Congresswoman Shea-Porter, Congressman Hodes, Governor Lynch and the legislative leadership in a positive and productive manner."

Lynch acknowledges discussions with Gregg, WH

2009-02-02T14:29:00.001-05:00

Gov. John Lynch said today that he has talked with U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH) and the White House about the possibility of Gregg being nominated to be Secretary of Commerce.

Lynch also said that Gregg told him he would not resign his senate seat if it changed the balance of power in the United States Senate.

"I have had conversations with Senator Gregg, the White House and U.S. Senate leadership. Senator Gregg has said he would not resign his seat in the U.S. Senate if it changed the balance in the Senate,” Lynch said in a statement. “Based on my discussions, it is clear the White House and Senate leadership understand this as well.”

Lynch also cited the national economy and said, "It is important that President Obama be able to select the advisors he feels are necessary to help him address the challenges facing our nation.”

Reports over the past couple of days have centered on the possibility that Lynch could appoint either Bonnie Newman or former House Speaker Doug Scamman, to serve the remainder of Gregg’s term. However, in the statement he released, Lynch refused to name whom he would appoint to fill the seat.

"If President Obama does nominate Senator Gregg to serve as Commerce Secretary, I will name a replacement who will put the people of New Hampshire first and represent New Hampshire effectively in the U.S. Senate."

Who goes with Gregg?

2009-02-02T12:03:00.001-05:00

It now seems that it is only a matter of when, not if, Judd Gregg is named Secretary of Commerce. While most people are focused on his replacement, our money is on Bonnie Newman, we were thinking about another set of questions.

Mainly, what about his staff?

Here are some things to consider:

-Would Gregg’s current chief of staff, Alyssa Shooshan, join him at Commerce? Would the appointed senator decide to even keep Shooshan on?
-What about Joel Maiola? Does Maiola take a hiatus from his consulting business to join Gregg at Commerce?
-What about Gregg’s press secretary Laena Fallon? Like Shooshan, would she join Gregg, be replaced or remain in her current position?

These are just some questions that people will be considering over the next couple of days.

Pols to kick off NH Political Library series

2009-01-30T14:56:00.003-05:00

If you consider yourself a political animal, or a wannabe politico, then check out a panel discussion the New Hampshire Political Library is hosting next weekend.

The New Hampshire Political Library will be kicking off their 2009 lecture series with a discussion called, “2008 New Hampshire Primary Debrief: A Discussion with Key Campaign Advisors.” It will be held on Sunday, February 8th at 2:00 p.m at President Franklin Pierce’s historic Concord home.

Ambassador Terry Shumaker, Chair of the New Hampshire Political Library Board of Directors, will moderate a panel discussion among Steve Duprey, advisor to John McCain; Ned Helms, advisor to Barack Obama; New Hampshire Senate President Sylvia Larsen, advisor to Hillary Clinton; and Tom Rath, advisor to Mitt Romney.

This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP to Caroline Amport at camport@politicallibrary.org or (603) 225-4617 x10.

Who too Watch For

2009-01-29T23:52:00.004-05:00

Below we have developed a list of potential appointees that Gov. John Lynch can make to fill U.S. Judd Gregg’s seat, if Gregg is appointed Secretary of Commerce.

Possible “seat warmers”

Former Gov. Walter Peterson (R-NH)- He led “Republicans for Lynch” and probably wouldn’t run in 2010
Secretary of State Bill Gardner (D-NH)-Most nonpartisan person in the state, but would leave hole in fight to protect primary

Possible Lynch appointees:

-Gov. John Lynch- Why not appoint himself
-U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes- He wants to be a United States Senator anyways
-U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter- Would please the progressives and has shown she can win in tough races
-Katrina Swett- Has a healthy amount of money in her FEC account
-Gary Hirshberg- We love his yogurt and he’s been making quiet political moves, like suing PSNH
-Blago: Does he meet the state’s residence requirements?
-Former Gov. John H. Sununu- Just for the heck of it

If Hodes is picked, possible contenders for a special election in NH-02:

-Katrina Swett (D-Bow)-Already has money in the bank
-Jay Buckey (D-Hanover)-If you cannot become a senator why not try to become a congressman?
-State Sen. Sylvia Larsen (D-Concord)- Would probably win a Democratic primary, but she’s more powerful as senate president than she would be as a freshman congresswoman
-Attorney General Kelly Ayotte (R-Nashua)- Most popular Republican in the state
-Grafton County Attorney Rick St. Hilaire (R-Lebanon)-One of the only elected Republicans in an increasingly Democratic part of the state
-Former U.S. Rep. Charlie Bass (R-Peterborough)- Has the name ID to recapture the seat for the Republicans
-Former State Sen. Bob Clegg (R-Hudson)-Can write his campaign a check

If Shea-Porter is picked, possible contenders for a special election in NH-01:

-Former Portsmouth Mayor Steve Marchand (D-Portsmouth)- He wants to run for something in 2010, so why not run for Congress in 2009?
-State Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-Exeter)- She’s often considered a rising star within the party
-State Sen. Lou D’Allesandro (D-Manchester)- His signs can simply read Lou
-Manchester Mayor Frank Guinta (R-Manchester)- He wants to move up the ladder and this might be his chance
-Sean Mahoney (R-Portsmouth)-Can probably bankroll his own campaign
-Former Health and Human Services Commissioner John Stephen (R-Manchester)- Could raise lots of cash in a short amount of time and the third time around might be the charm
-Former U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-Wolfeboro)-Would set-up another potential Stephen-Bradley primary
-Former New Hampshire Republican Chairman Fergus Cullen (R-Barrington)- He can try and put his farewell speech into action

If Gregg leaves...

2009-01-29T23:48:00.002-05:00

There are a lot of rumors circulating that U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH) might be nominated to be the next Secretary of Commerce. According to New Hampshire election, law if Gregg abandons his seat Gov. John Lynch will have the power to appoint someone to fill the seat. However, if Lynch decides to pick U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-NH) or U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-Rochester) then their selections will spark a special election in their respective congressional district.

New Hampshire Law:

661:5 United States Senator. If a vacancy occurs in the office of United States senator, the governor shall fill the vacancy by temporary appointment until the next state general election, when a senator shall be elected for the unexpired term.

661:6 United States Representative. If a vacancy occurs in the office of United States representative, the governor with advice of council shall, as soon as practicable, have precepts issued to the selectmen of the towns and cities in the district where the vacancy exists directing them to call a special state general election on the day he designates to fill the vacancy. Such election shall be conducted as provided in RSA 661:11 and shall fill the vacancy for the unexpired term.

Bayh To Campaign for Clinton

2007-12-26T11:20:00.001-05:00

From the Clinton Campaign (the events are closed to the public):

Indiana Senator Evan Bayh will talk to undecided New Hampshire voters about Senator Hillary Clinton’s 35-year record of making change happen in stops across the Granite State Thursday. Having repeatedly won elections in a red state, Senator Bayh will also address why Hillary Clinton is the Democrat best suited to win a general election in November 2008.

Senator Bayh was first elected to the Senate in 1998. Prior to that, he served two terms as Governor of Indiana. He has worked in the Senate to strengthen national security, create more jobs through the growth of small businesses, encourage responsible fatherhood, and help families better afford college tuition, retirement, and long-term care.

Flake, Huntsman Give A Helping Hand To McCain

2007-11-20T16:27:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, John McCain was joined by campaign surrogates Arizona Congressman Jeff Flake and Utah Governor Jon Huntsman.

To our knowledge, this was Flake's first trip to New Hampshire. Huntsman was in the state back in January, when he attended the NH GOP convention.

Bringing prominent supporters to the Granite State, appears to be an ongoing strategy for the McCain campaign.

Earlier this month, McCain was joined on the trail by former Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge.

South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham and Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty have also appeared in the Granite State stumping for McCain. Pawlenty and Graham are often considered to be candidates for potential cabinet positions in future Republican administrations.

McCain Brings In Rising GOP Stars to Help Campaign

2007-10-05T19:00:00.001-04:00

This weekend, New Hampshire Republicans will be able to see two rising Republican stars. Both though, will be campaigning for Senator John McCain.

Tomorrow, North Carolina Senator Richard Burr will be stumping for John McCain in Bedford. Burr won election to the Senate in 2004, he previously had served in the House.

On Monday, October 8 Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty will be speaking at the Grafton County GOP Dinner. Pawlenty is often mentioned as a possible 2008 vice-presidential nominee, especially if McCain gains the nomination.

Senator Richard Burr Makes First Visit To NH

2007-10-05T18:44:00.000-04:00

North Carolina Senator Richard Burr will be in New Hampshire tomorrow attempting to drum-up support for John McCain.

Senator Burr will speak with supporters and McCain staffers in Manchester.

He will then head-over to the Hillsborough Republican Oktoberfest Picnic

Jim Webb To Speak At NH Dems Dinner

2007-09-07T11:35:00.000-04:00

Virginia Senator Jim Webb will be the featured speaker at the New Hampshire Democratic Party's annual Jefferson Jackson Dinner. Webb is often mentioned as a possible 2008 vice-presidential nominee or a 2012 presidential candidate.

Here is the ticket information you will need to know:

Saturday October 20, 2007
6:30pm
Center of New Hampshire
700 Elm Street, Manchester
$50 per person
Tickets are now available online at http://www.nhdp.org/

Beau Biden Campaigns For Father

2007-07-29T16:29:00.000-04:00

Recently elected Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden, will spend Saturday, July 28, 2007 campaigning in New Hampshire for his father, Sen. Joe Biden. Biden will make several stops including at the Greenfield Blueberry "JAMboree", Jaffrey Riverfest, Peterborough Diner and Stratham Fair.

9:45 AM
BEAU BIDEN WILL MAKE A CAMPAIGN STOP AT THE GREENFIELD BLUEBERRY JAMboree
Greenfield Blueberry Jamboree
Oak Park971 Forest Road
Greenfield , NH

11:15 AM
BEAU BIDEN WILL MEET WITH LOCAL RESIDENTS AT THE JAFFREY RIVERFEST
Jaffrey RiverfestMain Street
Jaffrey, NH

12:30 PM
BEAU BIDEN WILL MAKE A CAMPAIGN STOP AT THE PETERBOROUGH DINER
Peterborough Diner
10 Depot Street
Peterborough, NH

3:00 PM
BEAU BIDEN WILL MEET WITH LOCAL RESIDENTS AT THE STRATHAM FAIR
Stratham Hill Park,
Route 33
Stratham, NH

Durbin Campaigns For Obama

2007-07-29T16:28:00.000-04:00

Senator Barack Obama's New Hampshire campaign announced today that U.S. Senator Dick Durbin will visit two house parties in New Hampshire tomorrow. The senior senator from Obama's home state, Durbin serves as the Majority Whip in the U.S. Senate and is a longtime supporter and friend of Obama's. He will greet voters and speak about Barack Obama's vision for changing politics in America.

Saturday, July 28

10:00am – 11:45am
NASHUA HOUSE PARTY WITH SENATOR DURBIN
Home of Rep. Cindy Rosenwald & Peter Klementowicz
101 Wellington Street
Nashua, NH

1:30pm – 3:00pm
MANCHESTER HOUSE PARTY WITH SENATOR DURBIN
Home of George Bruno & Rona Zlokower
Saturday, July 28,
161 North Adams Street (between Clark & Carpenter Streets)
Manchester, NH

Pawlenty: My Hands Are Already Full

2007-04-28T19:07:00.001-04:00

Today, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty participated in the official opening of John McCain's New Hampshire headquarters. Before a crowd of 60 "McCainiacs," Pawlenty said that he is supporting Senator McCain because he is a "leader for our times" and he has "uncommon courage and patriotism." After his opening remarks, the Republican Governor met supporters and signed a blank wall that will be filled with signatures of McCain supporters and volunteers

.In an interview with "New Hampshire Presidential Watch," Pawlenty said that so far he has rarely campaigned for McCain, but once the Minnesota legislative session concludes he plans to do more stumping for McCain. As he was leaving, I said "you would make an interesting VP pick" to which Pawlenty laughed and said "I already have my hands full."

For more on Tim Pawlenty and his support of John McCain, check out this link: http://robertbluey.com/blog/2007/02/06/gov-tim-pawlenty-why-im-supporting-john-mccain/

Graham To Visit Lake Winnipeasaukee

2007-04-10T13:45:00.000-04:00

South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham will be in the state on May 4th. Graham is a close friend of McCain and Sununu and is often mentioned as a possible Vice-Presidential nominee or Attorney General appointment. Senator Graham will be speaking at the Belkap County Lincoln Day Dinner on May 4th. He will be urging Republicans to support John McCain's presidential bid. Here are the details:

Belknap County LDD Cruise
Date : 4 May 2007
Event Description: Annual Belknap County Lincoln Day Dinner Cruise with featured guest Senator Lindsey Graham
Where: Lake Winnipeasaukee (departs from The Weirs)
When: Friday, May 4th @ 5:30pm
Cost: $35
Contact: Frank TiltonEmail: franktilton@gmail.com

Pawlenty To Attend McCain HQ Opening

2007-04-10T13:44:00.000-04:00

It's been confirmed to us, that Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty will be in New Hampshire on Saturday, April 28th. Pawlenty will be attending the opening of John McCain's New Hampshire headquarters. McCain's Manchester headquarters are at the Waumbec Mill on 250 Commercial Street, Suite 3007. The McCain campaign is just down the hall from Tom Tancredo's office.

Blackburn To Bedford

2007-02-16T16:00:00.001-05:00

I know this is a few months ahead of schedule, but Tennessee Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn will be in the state in about four months. Blackburn is not running for president, instead she will be stumping for Mitt Romney.

Date : 4 June 2007
Category : General CalendarEvent Description-Graduation luncheon with keynote speaker Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee)
Where: Bedford Village Inn
When: Monday, June 4th
Cost: To be announced
Contact: Donna Sytek 893-8889
Email : donnasytek@aol.com

Huntsman Helps McCain

2007-01-27T16:01:00.000-05:00

Utah Governor Jon Huntsman Jr. was in Manchester today. Huntsman was at the Merrimack Restaurant for a "John McCain 2008 Exploratory Committee" luncheon. McCain supporters were handing out fliers promoting the event, at the NH GOP convention. Huntsman is also a former U.S. Ambassador to Singapore and a staff assistant for President Reagan. Huntsman will be up for re-election in 2008. In case you were wondering, Jon Huntsman Sr. is a national finance co-leader for Mitt Romney.

The picture above is of Huntsman Jr. and Romney in 2005. Huntsman wrote a series of foreign policy briefs for Romney.

Steele In NH

2007-01-15T18:14:00.001-05:00

Former Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele is in New Hampshire tonight. He is speaking at a Martin Luther King Jr dinner. Steele lost a senate race to Ben Cardin, last year. His name was mentioned last year as a new RNC chairman, Sen. Mel Martinez eventually took the post.

Why 2012??

2007-01-09T17:07:00.000-05:00

Some people might question why a blog devoted to 2012 is necessary. I would say, why not?? This blog will keep track of potential presidential candidates who might be looking towards a run in 2012. For example, if Sen. Ken Salazar of Colorado visits the state it might signal he is interested in running in 2012. This website will not be updated that often, instead visit www.nh2008.blogspot.com, for updates on the 2008 primary and presidential contest.