Thursday, May 31, 2007

Today, I am proud to announce my endorsement of Steve Marchand in his campaign for the US Senate Seat currently filled by John Sununu.

Before I begin, I'd like to first say something about my friend Katrina Swett. Katrina knows that she can count me among her friends and admirers.  Our children have grown up together and we have enjoyed a long friendship that I expect to continue. We see eye to eye on many issues.

But I believe that the election of 2008 will echo the themes that we heard in 2006, namely that the electorate wants change. The voters are tired of the partisan bickering and gridlock. They are more aware than ever of our threats to the environment, our economy and our national security. The voters want to see some new ideas, new solutions and new faces. I believe that Steve Marchand is a highly appealing and electable candidate who will appeal to that sentiment.

In the months since I decided not to enter this race, I have spent a significant amount of time with Steve, and I am impressed with his knowledge, poise and thoughtfulness on the issues. I also think he has a superb political mind and an excellent grasp of the electorate.  I agree with his priority issues:

• IRAQ - Steve Marchand recognizes that we need to get out of this dead end that is draining our nation fiscally and emotionally as well as severely eroding our reputation abroad. Steve supports a phased withdrawal and is opposed to the Bush escalation.  Voters will appreciate his clarity and decisiveness.

• THE ENVIRONMENT - Steve understands the urgent need for policy to address the Climate Crisis and the economic development and jobs creation opportunities it poses. He has a proven track record of action in his short tenure as Portsmouth's mayor and has signed Portsmouth on to multiple climate change agreements (Mayor's Climate Protection Agreement and the Cities Climate Protection Agreement) and led the construction of the only LEED-certified public building in the state, the new Portsmouth Public Library.  Steve didn't wait for the federal government to make changes.  He took the initiative and became a leader by pursuing real solutions to the climate change problem at the local level.  He has taken the time to educate himself on the challenges of climate change and the economic development opportunities that are represented by the solutions to this problem. He has the knowledge and the commitment to be a leader on climate change in the U.S. Senate, as well. 
  

• BALANCING FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE POLICY WITH SOCIALLY PROGRESSIVE AGENDAS:  Steve understands that by pursuing efficient government, it's possible to be fiscally responsible and socially progressive at the same time.  That's good for business, good for workers and good for New Hampshire.

In the final analysis, I believe that Steve is highly electable.  A Manchester native, he has strong roots in that community and was the first in his family to attend college.  I believe his personal story will have a refreshing and positive appeal to voters who are concerned about the future of our state and nation and looking for new leadership.

Steve Marchand is the right choice for U.S. Senator.  He's the only Democratic candidate for Senate who has ever held elected office.  He knows how to run and win.  His work helping Democrats like Mark Fernald and Bev Hollingworth proves that.  He has a strong environmental record and is proving that it's possible to be fiscally responsible and socially progressive at the same time.

John Sununu has served our state in Washington DC for 11 years.  It is time for change.  

We need Steve Marchand as our U.S. Senator.  

I am proud to endorse his candidacy. 

-Remarks as written.  Delivered at the Legislative Office Building, Concord, NH.