Next Generation Leaders Advance Across New Hampshire, Defeating Free State Challenges
CONCORD, NH — Last night’s primary election delivered a clear message: Granite Staters are ready for a new generation of leaders who know their communities, understand the challenges working people face, and are ready to fight for a New Hampshire where everyone can thrive.
Across the state, working-age candidates supported by 603 Forward who faced a challenge from Free State candidates won their primary, demonstrating the strength of community-rooted candidates and the growing appetite for a different kind of leadership in New Hampshire.
These victories are part of a broader effort by 603 Forward to recruit, train, and support the next generation of Granite Staters ready to step into public office. Through its candidate recruitment and leadership development programs, 603 Forward has worked with hundreds of aspiring leaders and built a growing network of candidates who are prepared to run for office.
"These candidates showed what happens when you build a bench of leaders who are deeply connected to the communities they want to serve,” said Beck Kelly, Leadership Programs Director at 603 Forward. “They stepped up because they believe New Hampshire can be better, and they brought that vision directly to their neighbors. Last night’s results show that Granite Staters are ready to put their trust in leaders who are focused on building strong communities and delivering for the people who live here."
The results also underscore the importance of investing in candidates before they ever file for office. In total, 603 Forward recruited and trained 111 candidates who filed to run for state office this year. By bringing aspiring candidates together as a 27-member cohort through Run Club, 603 Forward has created a community of leaders who can learn from one another, build relationships, and enter campaigns with the skills and support they need to succeed.
"New Hampshire is ready for the next generation of leadership – people who know their neighbors, understand what it takes to build a life here, and are willing to fight for a future where all of us can thrive,” said Matt Mooshian, Executive Director of 603 Forward. “Last night, Granite Staters chose those leaders. We’re incredibly proud of every candidate who put their name on the ballot, every person who knocked a door and made a case for their community, and everyone who is moving forward to the general election. This is what the next generation of New Hampshire leadership looks like"
603 Forward will continue working with candidates and emerging leaders throughout the general election and beyond, building a stronger pipeline of working-age Granite Staters ready to lead at every level of government.
List of Candidates Advancing from Primary Election:
Heather Deiner, Hillsborough 25*
Jodi Newell, Cheshire 4*
Sienna Schaier, Strafford 10
Will Hurley, Strafford 12
Patrick Long, Hillsborough 26*
Jason Quinno, Merrimack 30
* denotes challenge by Free Stater in primary
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