Democratic Gov. John Lynch, the only man to be elected to head New Hampshire governor four times, won’t seek a fifth term. Lynch’s decision creates a possibility for Republicans to pick up the governorship, according to several media outlets.
“Democracy demands periodic change, to refresh and revive itself," Lynch said this morning at a news conference in Manchester. "Democracy needs new leaders and new ideas."
"I think it's time for the next generation of leadership in New Hampshire," said Lynch, who is in his fourth two-year term.
Potential GOP candidates mentioned include Ovide Lamontagne, a tea party favorite who lost a close primary campaign against now-Sen. Kelly Ayotte in 2010; another tea party favorite and head of the conservative think tank Cornerstone Kevin Smith; 2010 gubernatorial candidate John Stephen; Manchester Mayor Ted Gatsas.
On the Democratic side, former state Sen. Maggie Hassan is expected to run.
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