Granite State Times

On June 20th, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) organized a gubernatorial candidate forum in Concord for those competing to replace the outgoing Governor Chris Sununu. The primary election is slated for September 10th.

The event featured three of the four primary candidates running for governor and focused on issues pertinent to small businesses. The participating candidates were Kelly Ayotte, a Republican and former U.S. Senator and State Attorney General; Chuck Morse, a Republican and former State Senate President and State Representative; and Cinde Warmington, a Democrat currently serving as State Executive Councilor for the 2nd District and an attorney.

Joyce Craig, a Democrat and former Mayor and City Alderman of Manchester, was also invited but chose not to attend.

Bruce Berke, NFIB’s state director in New Hampshire, moderated the forum, covering topics such as taxes, regulations, healthcare, hiring challenges, inflation, and economic development. These areas are current concerns for businesses and communities in the region.

In a statement, Bruce Berke said, “NFIB’s successful forum provided an invaluable opportunity for our members and other business owners to hear where each candidate stands on the issues affecting New Hampshire’s job creators.” He added that the event allowed the candidates to present their positions on key issues not only to small business owners but also to all voters in New Hampshire thanks to extensive media coverage. Berke expressed gratitude for the attendance of three major candidates and regret that Joyce Craig did not participate.