Molly Kelly

Here's a review of the state Senate playing field as we begin the summer.

The races are divided into five categories: Strong Democratic, Lean Democratic, Toss-up, Lean Republican and Strong Republican.

Let's start with the Democrats:

Former state Senate President Tom Eaton (R-Keene) has decided to try to reclaim his former seat in New Hampshire's 10th state Senate district.  

Eaton was unseated by state Sen. Molly Kelly (D-Keene) two years ago by slightly more than 4,000 votes. In a statement issued this afternoon, he promised to deliver a balanced budget and cited Kelly's fiscal policies as a key reason why he decided to make a bid for her seat. 

CONCORD- Former state Sen. Tom Eaton (R-Keene) has formed a political action committee.

According to the filing, the "Friends of Tom Eaton" PAC was established for a run at the state senate.

Former state Sen. Tom Eaton (R-Keene) is considering running for his old seat.

Eaton told PolitickerNH.com that he is thinking about running against state Sen. Molly Kelly (D-Keene), but hasn't made a decision.

The hot rumor of the day is former senate President Tom Eaton may be seeking his old seat again in November. Eaton is getting a lot of encouragement to run again from Cheshire Republicans, as most believe he is the only candidate who would have a chance of unseating Molly Kelly. Kelly handily defeated Eaton in 2006 by over 4,000 votes to claim SD-10.

Eaton has confirmed with Republicans he is considering a run. Republican insiders are split on Eaton's chances to reclaim his old seat. The biggest unknown factor is with the elimination of the straight ticket voting, how many college students will bother to vote in a state senate race.

CONCORD- Campaign finance icon Granny D celebrated her 98th birthday with a party at the New Hampshire State House.

The party, held at the office of State Senators Betsi DeVries (D-Manchester) and Molly Kelly (D-Keene), featured an oil painting of Granny D, cake for guests and toasts from prominent politicians.  read more »