Not saying no, Chandler says it is too early to discuss another run for Speaker

By Brian Lawson, PolitickerNH.com Reporter

CONWAY--State Rep. Gene Chandler (R-Bartlett) demurred when asked if he will run for House Speaker again if Republicans regain control of the lower-chamber.

Chandler, a former Speaker and currently the Republican House Policy Leader, told PolitickerNH.com that he is focusing on electing Republicans to the House.

Last week state Reps. Fran Wendleboe (R-New Hampton) and Sherman Packard (R-Londonderry) announced that they are running to lead House Republicans next year.

"I expect there'll be other people to throw their hat into the ring," Chandler said. "But my goal right now is to help get Republicans elected."

When asked if he be among those to "throw their hat into the ring" Chandler said, "I'm not making any announcements as long as we're in the minority."

Chandler said he sent out a letter to members urging them to help the Republican House PAC and fellow candidates.

"In my opinion when you're in the minority it's early to say that you're running for a position in the majority," Chandler added. "That's nothing against the candidates though."

BRIAN LAWSON is a PolitickerNH.com Reporter and can be reached via email at brian.lawson@politickernh.com.

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Comments

Rep. Chandler was censured

posted by nhnative

Rep. Chandler was censured for his ethical lapses and had to resign in disgrace. The fact this possibility is the topic of conversation shows that some Republicans did not learn their lesson.

10/01/08 6:52 pm

Gene Chandler is a dedicated public servant who made a mistake, acknowledged it, and paid a steep and public price. He did his time in the penalty box. He stood before the voters in his district, and they kept him in office. The state is better off that he is still involved in public life.

Fergus Cullen
Chairman, NH Republicans

10/01/08 7:33 pm

Is this serious?

posted by Anonymous2008

Will he appoint Jim Ryan his deputy?

10/01/08 9:32 pm

??

posted by nhnative

Did his time in the penalty box? That is an inappropriate use of a sports analogy. Chandler violated a very simple ethical rule that required him to report donations to his corn roast. He purposely hid donations from lobbyists and others with business in the legislature. He made a Mock-ery of transparency and accountability.

10/01/08 10:51 pm

Dems should create new pledge

posted by Anonymous One

"If elected to the NH House of Representatives, I pledge not to vote for anyone for Speaker who has committed a felony, has a criminal record or found guilty of violating the ethics rules of the House by the ethics committee."

10/02/08 5:57 am