Kelly Ayotte Elected New Hampshire Governor

Republican Kelly Ayotte has won the New Hampshire governor's race, defeating Democrat Joyce Craig with a lead of approximately 51% to 47%. Craig conceded the election shortly after polls closed, expressing pride in her campaign despite the loss. Ayotte, a former U.S. Senator, will become the state's fourth woman governor and has pledged to maintain New Hampshire's zero income and sales tax policies, which resonated with voters during her campaign. The race was characterized as one of the most competitive in the country, with Ayotte's pro-taxpayer platform effectively countering Craig's proposals for tax increases. Ayotte's victory reflects a broader preference among New Hampshire voters for fiscal conservatism and limited government intervention. The outgoing Governor Chris Sununu, who endorsed Ayotte, did not seek reelection, paving the way for her leadership.