There were nine primaries in New Hampshire’s state Senate yesterday; eight of them between Republicans.
Two Republican incumbents – David Boutin of Hooksett, and Nancy Stiles of Hampton –beat back more conservative challengers. Boutin’s race the tougher: he bested former state rep Jane Cormier by single digits.
The one Democratic primary was in Merrimack County. It was to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Senate President Sylvia Larsen. Concord School Board member Kass Ardinger – who was endorsed by Larsen – was routed by Dan Feltes, a legal aid lawyer.
“I’m working hard in my race, I’m going to keep working hard to help other folks in the district,” said Feltes, “Like I said Kass and I are going to move forward together.”
In three closely watched races where retiring Republicans Peter Bragdon, Jim Rausch and Bob Odell, left open seats, Gary Daniels, Regina Birdsell, and Jerry Little will compete to be Senators.
Other Republican victors on the night were Kevin Avard, George Lambert, and Phil Nazarro.