Close-Up

Scott Spradling, one of the state's most politically powerful people as WMUR-TV's political director, has decided not to renew his contract with New Hampshire's only major news station to set up a consulting firm.

Spradling's last day at the station will be April 11. No replacement has been announced.

The Spradling Group will help businesses with their public relations and become more politically relevant.  read more »

While it will likely surprise no one, Congressman Paul Hodes, for the first time in the media, announced flat out that he is seeking re-election this year.

In a taped interview with WMUR's "Close-Up" with host Scott Spradling, Hodes, a freshman Democrat, said he is seeking a second term.

Hodes also answered criticism from state Republicans that he used Congressional franked mail for political purposes. He said he sees value in using franked mail and will continue to use it.

The show airs on WMUR this Sunday at 10am.

John Stephen continued on the attack of his Republican primary opponent in the First Congressional District, Jeb Bradley, by saying is partly responsible for the federal budget deficit.  read more »