Senate Race Spotlights Veterans

The spotlight in the U.S. Senate race in New Hampshire over the past 24 hours has focused on veterans and the nation's solemn pledge to them.

A day after U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) aired her first television ad on WMUR-TV – about veterans – Republican Scott Brown met with local veterans in Manchester.

Brown, who is retiring this month from the Army National Guard, received support from Real Pinard of Manchester.

"New Hampshire veterans want representatives in Congress fighting to increase access to the health care and benefits that were promised—including a full-service VA hospital right here in New Hampshire," Pinard said in a press release from Brown's campaign. "After serving in the National Guard for 35 years, Scott Brown understands the challenges facing veterans and their families and has demonstrated that he will go to bat for us in Washington. That is the type of representation we need and deserve."

Shaheen, also on May 5, rolled out a bipartisan Veterans for Shaheen Leadership Committee to focus on outreach to veterans and military families.

Jim Smith of Salem, Brigadier General, U.S. Air Force (Ret.), is one of those on the committee.

"Our men and women in uniform face daunting challenges every day," Smith said in a press release. "They need leaders that can be trusted without even a moment of hesitation, and Jeanne Shaheen is that kind of leader.  As our Senator she has been a strong and steadfast ally for all New Hampshire's veterans."