Van Ostern running for Governor

Executive Councilor Colin Van Ostern announced Tuesday, October 8 that he is running for New Hampshire Governor in 2016.

Van Ostern is the first Democrat to formally join the race.

In the announcement on his website, Van Ostern says his priorities include business growth, lower college debt, and a southern New Hampshire commuter rail.

“I see a future for our state that is accelerated by passenger rail from Boston to Manchester, brightened by solar panels, supported by growing small businesses, and strengthened by good access to quality health care – whether it’s birth control at Planned Parenthood or addiction treatment services at community health centers,” Van Ostern says.

Fellow Executive Councilor Chris Sununu is the only Republican in the race so far.  Sununu is emphasizing lower taxes and fees in his campaign.

There are rumors that several other elected officials may join the race for Governor: Portsmouth City Councilor Stefany Shaheen (D), Laconia Sen. Andrew Hosmer (D), Senate President Chuck Morse (R), Senate Majority Leader Jeb Bradley (R), Senate Finance Committee Chairwoman Jeanie Forrester (R), and Wilton Rep. Frank Edelblut (R).