State Senate

Amanda "Mandy" Merrill has decided to run for the state Senate, three sources tell PolitickerNH.com.

Merrill will be running for the office being vacated by state Sen. Iris Estabrook (D-Durham). Estabrook will support Merrill's candidacy.

Yesterday at the Democratic State Committee meeting, it was announced that in early June the Democrats will be establishing 20-30 local offices. The offices will help coordinate campaigns and organize grassroots efforts.

Party Chairman Ray Buckley also reported that the party has recruited candidates in 23 of the 24 State Senate districts.

Roger Goun (D-Brentwood) has decided not to challenge State Sen. Jack Barnes (R-Raymond).

"It's not going to happen this time. I'll take a look at the situation again at the end of the year and decide if it's worth another try," Goun said.

Last year, Goun formed a political action committee to run against Barnes.

Yesterday, the "Granny D bill" passed the New Hampshire State Senate by a voice vote.

The bill would establish a commission to study the feasibility of public financing for state elections.

Secretary of State Bill Gardner, House Speaker Terri Norelli and Senate President Sylvia Larsen would appoint commission members.

Gov. John Lynch is expected to sign the bill.

Greenville Democratic State Rep. Stephen Spratt has formed a political action committee to run for the state senate.

Spratt's PAC is titled "Spratt for Senate Committee" and states its purpose is to "elect Stephen Spratt to the N.H. Senate District 11 seat."

Spratt will be facing Milford Republican State Senator Peter Bragdon.

Sandwich Democrat Judge Willard "Bud" Martin is considering a run for State Senate District Three. Wakefield Republican Joe Kenney, who is running for Governor, currently holds the seat.