Nyquist: Election an 'Exhilarating' Experience

One week after Andy Sanborn and Lee Nyquist waited into the early-morning hours for the result of their District 9 Senate race to be determined, the candidates once again patiently awaited today as more than 30,000 votes were tabulated.

Though Sanborn won the Nov. 6 General Election by 253 votes, Nyquist called for a recount due to the less than 1 percent separation between he and his opponent.

As it turned out, Nyquist, a New Boston Democrat, gained 40 votes in the recount but still fell 213 supportive ballots short of defeating the Bedford Republican.

New Hampshire Secretary of State Bill Gardner, tonight, affirmed a recount result of 15,454 votes for Sanborn and 15,241 for Nyquist.

Sanborn released the following statement regarding his victory:

“I’m pleased by the result of the recount, and look forward to continuing my work in the Senate for a more pro-job, pro-growth New Hampshire.  Tonight, small business owners, taxpayers and those struggling to make ends meet will be able to sleep more easily knowing that the State Senate majority will remain in Republican hands.”

“I am confident that the Republican Senators will join me in voting down any attempt by Democrat Governor Hassan and the Democratically controlled house from raising any taxes and fees on the hard working people of this great state." 

"In crafting the next budget, Governor Hassan will have to focus on finding reductions and efficiencies in government operations.  I believe we can work together to create a responsible budget to take care of those in need and focus on the proper role of government.

"I look forward to working with the Governor to protect our personal freedoms, keep taxes low, and help push back on excessive regulations, so we can expand our economy and get our friends and neighbors back to work."

Nyquist said the close vote is indicative of desire for change in Concord.

"The experience of the campaign and our effort to return civility and bipartisanship to the New Hampshire legislature has been an exhilarating one and I think one that was very, very successful," said Nyquist. "I want to thank all my supporters and the folks who voted for me. I think it's reflective of those who want to move forward in New Hampshire, in particular the citizens of Bedford."

The result of the recount is significant as it allows Granite State Republicans to maintain a 13-11 senate majority.

NH GOP Chairman Wayne MacDonald said he was confident Sanborn would win all along.

"Each vote has been counted, more than once, and the voters of that district have spoken; they want Andy Sanborn as their Senator," said MacDonald. "I congratulate Andy on his win, and we are looking forward to him accomplishing many more great things in this upcoming term in the State Senate, among these will be his outstanding record of fighting to reduce taxes and state spending."

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