NH Democrats Keep Congress Seats; Trump-Backed Candidate Loses

CONCORD, NH -- New Hampshire Democrats retained control of the state's congressional delegation Tuesday, riding a blue wave that swept parts of the country. Chris Pappas, a 38-year-old executive councilor, defeated Trump-backed Republican Eddie Edwards by a slim margin in the First District. Pappas became New Hampshire's first gay congressman.

"Voters are clearly saying that it's time to reject the partisanship of the last two years," Pappas said during his victory speech. "Our democracy has been tested."

In the Second District, Congresswoman Ann Kuster was re-elected to a fourth term. Kuster cruised to victory over Republican challenger Steve Negron.

"I think people could see the distinction in our values," Kuster said during her victory speech.

Edwards was endorsed by Donald Trump Jr. and Rudy Giuliani, one of President Trump's lawyers, was dispatched to New Hampshire Monday to campaign for Edwards.

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Pappas also became one of the youngest members of Congress. He has downplayed the significance of his sexual orientation on the campaign trail.

"It's not meaningful to me," Pappas said during a recent New Hampshire Public Radio debate. "But I truly believe that we're all in this together and that by telling your own story, you can ensure that other people are accepted in their communities and can live their truth and pursue a healthy and successful life."

Pappas won the seat previously held by fellow Democrat Carol Shea-Porter, who retired after serving four terms. The district covers the eastern part of the state — including Manchester, the biggest city in New Hampshire. The district includes the Patch communities of Portsmouth, Hampton, Exeter, Merrimack, Bedford and Londonderry.

The Second District includes the Patch communities of Concord, Nashua, Salem, Milford, Amherst and Windham.

Pappas said health care is his top priority.

"We must build on the Affordable Care Act and protect people with pre-existing conditions," Pappas said in his victory speech. "There is so much to do."

Kuster said the most important issue facing the state is training workers.

"Though we are fortunate to have such a low unemployment rate, it creates challenges for employers who are seeking to grow their businesses," Kuster previously told Patch. "I've introduced legislation to provide a tax credit for employers that create partnerships with educational institutions to help train folks for the jobs that exist in their communities. This is the type of policy that I will fight for."

Pappas won by a margin of 53 percent to 45 percent while Kuster won by a margin of 57 percent to 41 percent. The will join New Hampshire U.S. Senators and fellow Democrats Jeanne Shaheen (up for re-election in 2020) and Maggie Hassan (up for re-election in 2022) in Washington, D.C.

Photo credits: Chris Pappas campaign and Office Of Ann Kuster