Democratic Candidates Battle Two Weeks Before Primary

A trio of female candidates headlined a small barbecue gathering hosted by the Londonderry Democrats at the Mack's Apples U-Pick on Adams Road.

Gubernatorial candidates Maggie Hassan and Jackie Cilley spoke first, with both making their case for the position just over two weeks until they will battle in the state primary.

Cilley said she envisions a state that stands for the values of residents and that the plan moving forward is on the table and being worked on.

She also noted that cigarette taxes and expanded gambling are not sustainable solutions for New Hampshire.

The appearance for Cilley in Londonderry was her second of the week following a breakfast event at the Town Common last Monday.

Hassan said she is running for governor because she wants "every family in New Hampshire to have the opportunity to overcome their challenges," which will start with ensuring the best work force in the country.

Carol Shea-Porter, who is challenging Republican U.S. Rep. Frank Guinta for the District 1 seat in Congress, bashed her opponent over and over.

Shea-Porter said that Guinta's positions on medicare, social security, the middle class and particularly women's issues are all concerning.

"The people who claim they want big government out of our lives are so willing to put that big government at the door of the hospital, at the door of the doctor's office, at the door of the church, at the door of the synagogue and the door of your house.

Also appearing was Chris Pappas, who is running for a seat on the Executive Council, and other state representative candidates.