Democratic Gov. Maggie Hassan is at odds with the two executive councilors from her own party over her nominee to lead the state's banking department.
The Executive Council voted 3-2 to confirm Jerry Little, a Republican state senator, to serve as the next commissioner. Democratic councilors Colin Van Ostern and Chris Pappas voted against his nomination Wednesday, citing his previous work heading the New Hampshire Bankers Association, which includes the industry's lobbying arm.
Van Ostern and Pappas say they have concerns about Little's ability to regulate the industry, given his past ties. Van Ostern, who's running for governor, says he questions whether Little has a passion for consumer protection.
Republican councilors David Wheeler, Joe Kenney and Chris Sununu, another gubernatorial candidate, back the nomination.
Little will start in early June.
