Kelly Ayotte Clinches GOP Primary for New Hampshire Governor, Setting Up a Key Election Battle

Former Senator Kelly Ayotte secures GOP nomination for New Hampshire governor, setting the stage for a crucial battle in the upcoming general election.

At a Glance

Kelly Ayotte won the Republican primary for New Hampshire governor with a substantial lead over her opponents
Ayotte will face Democrat Joyce Craig in the general election
The former senator aims to continue many of outgoing Governor Chris Sununu’s policies
New Hampshire’s recent political trends make this a highly competitive race

Ayotte’s Decisive Victory in GOP Primary

Former U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte has clinched the Republican nomination for New Hampshire governor, marking a significant step in her bid to return to high-profile political office. Ayotte defeated former state Senate President Chuck Morse by a wide margin, securing 68% of the vote with 19% of precincts reporting. This decisive victory positions Ayotte as a formidable contender in the upcoming gubernatorial race.

Ayotte’s campaign focused on her extensive record of public service, including her tenure as New Hampshire’s first female attorney general and her term in the U.S. Senate. Her victory was bolstered by the endorsement of outgoing Governor Chris Sununu, a popular figure in state politics.

BREAKING: Kelly Ayotte wins Republican nomination for governor in New Hampshire primary election. #APRaceCall at 8:00 p.m. EDT. https://t.co/FjgpZFcJ4E

— AP Politics (@AP_Politics) September 11, 2024

Setting the Stage for a Competitive General Election

The primary results set up a showdown between Ayotte and Joyce Craig, the former mayor of Manchester who secured the Democratic nomination. This matchup is already drawing national attention, with the Cook Political Report rating the race as a “toss up.” New Hampshire’s recent political history adds to the intrigue, as the state has voted Democratic in the last five presidential elections while maintaining Republican control of the state legislature.

“They both do the same thing, which is higher taxes. I think more crime, sanctuary cities, things that aren’t good for New Hampshire,” Ayotte said.

Ayotte has positioned herself as a continuation of Sununu’s leadership, pledging to maintain many of his policies. This strategy appears to resonate with some voters, as evidenced by supporter Melissa Clark’s statement: “I love Sununu. I wanted to find a candidate who was going to be the same moving forward.”

Former US Sen. Kelly Ayotte wins Republican nomination for New Hampshire governor https://t.co/M9CqtgcWtb

— KX News (@KXMB) September 11, 2024

Key Issues and Campaign Strategy

Ayotte’s campaign has emphasized her vision for New Hampshire, which she describes as “very, very different” from her Democratic opponents. She has focused on fiscal conservatism, public safety, and opposition to sanctuary cities. In a unique campaign strategy, Ayotte has tapped into anti-Massachusetts sentiment with the slogan “Don’t Mass it up,” highlighting her commitment to preserving New Hampshire’s distinct political identity.

“Whether it’s Joyce Craig or Cinde Warmington, my vision for the state, is very, very different.” Ayotte said.

The former senator has also navigated the complex political landscape surrounding former President Trump. Despite distancing herself from Trump in 2016, Ayotte has since endorsed him for the 2024 presidential election, potentially appealing to both moderate and conservative Republican voters.

Looking Ahead to November

As New Hampshire enters the final stretch before the general election, both Ayotte and Craig will be intensifying their efforts to win over voters. The race is expected to be closely watched nationally, given New Hampshire’s status as a swing state and its importance in national politics. With Ayotte’s strong primary performance and Craig’s background as a successful mayor, the stage is set for a highly competitive and consequential gubernatorial election that could shape the future of New Hampshire for years to come.