New Hampshire – Secretary of State David Scanlan says he will fight to keep his office as the state’s newly elected Democratic majority prepares to vote on his re‑election. The joint ballot of the House and Senate is scheduled for Dec. 2, and the 292‑seat Democratic control of the 400‑member House could be enough to unseat the incumbent.
Democratic Majority Raises the Stakes
In a recent interview with the public‑affairs program “CloseUp,” Scanlan acknowledged the “daunting numbers” facing him. He noted that he has historically won his elections with bipartisan backing and emphasized his experience running the office in a nonpartisan manner.
“There is no candidate out there that is more qualified than I am,” Scanlan said. “There is no candidate that has the experience that I have. I’ve run the office in a nonpartisan way.”
How the Secretary Is Chosen
New Hampshire’s constitution requires the Secretary of State to be elected by a joint vote of both chambers of the General Court. The House and Senate meet together, and a simple majority decides the outcome. This process, unlike a popular election, places the office directly in the hands of legislators.
Historical Context
The last time Scanlan faced a Democratic challenger was in 2022, when the House was more evenly split and he retained his position. This election cycle, however, marks the first time Democrats have secured a veto‑proof majority in the House, raising the possibility of a partisan shift in the secretary’s office.
Potential Implications
If the joint vote results in Scanlan’s removal, the new secretary would inherit oversight of elections, business filings, and the state’s official records. The role is critical for maintaining the integrity of New Hampshire’s election processes, especially as the state prepares for upcoming federal and state contests.
State officials have not indicated any immediate changes to election administration, but the prospect of new leadership could affect how the office approaches issues such as voter registration, ballot design, and the certification of results.
Scanlan’s Response
Despite the political headwinds, Scanlan remains confident in his ability to serve. He reiterated his commitment to a nonpartisan approach and urged legislators to consider the continuity and expertise he brings to the position.
“I will continue to work for all New Hampshire citizens, regardless of party affiliation,” he said. “My priority is to ensure that our elections are fair, transparent, and accessible.”
What Residents Should Watch
New Hampshire voters should monitor the Dec. 2 vote, as the outcome will shape the administration of upcoming elections, including the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential contest. While the secretary’s role is not directly elected by the public, the office’s actions have a tangible impact on every voter’s experience.
Local civic groups have called for transparency in the selection process, urging legislators to prioritize competence over partisan advantage. As the vote approaches, community members are encouraged to stay informed through official legislative updates and local news outlets.
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
