Portsmouth, NH -- "The primary role of a city councilor is to deliver the public's highest-priority goals as efficiently and transparently as possible," says Steve Marchand, "and to keep track of how we're doing along the way." Democracy for New Hampshire is pleased to announce the endorsement of Steve's race for Portsmouth City Council, taking place November 8th.

Bringing a passion for accountability, openness, and fairness in government together with a zeal for grassroots campaigning, Steve embodies the ideals of DFNH's mission: supporting socially progressive, fiscally responsible candidates who speak honestly about policy choices and promoting grassroots political activism in the Granite State. "I believe government can be a real force for good in improving people's lives," says Steve, "but only if we earn the trust of citizens through being accountable, transparent, fair, and inclusive."

Steve was first elected to the Portsmouth City Council in 2003, running a grassroots campaign and receiving the fifth-highest number of votes despite being a relative newcomer to the city. During his first term, he received attention for his efforts to reform the city’s budget process into an “outcome-based” model, emphasizing transparency, public input, and data-based policy-making. The Portsmouth Herald was impressed with his work: "We applaud his willingness to become that involved as a new councilor and the chutzpah it took to tackle an issue that has needed to be addressed for a long time." (5/25/05) Steve sees the budget process as so important because of its impact on such issues as education, public safety, and infrastructure. "These are the quality of life aspects that matter most to most people," he says, "I think we have a responsibility to deliver those needs effectively, efficiently, professionally, and openly."

With a Masters in Public Administration and experience as a consultant working with local government departments across the United States to improve their performance, Steve is well-qualified for Portsmouth's City Council and has already been an agent for positive change. In 2000, he served as the Northeast Regional Director of the Concord Coalition, a nonpartisan, grassroots organization advocating fiscal responsibility, while ensuring that Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid are secure for all generations. Following the 2002 campaign season, Steve was named New Hampshire's political "Rising Star" of the year by the influential political website politicsnh.com, as well as one of the 105 people with the greatest influence on the 2004 New Hampshire Presidential Primary.

In addition to help knocking doors before the election, Steve will need volunteers for Get Out the Vote on election day, making phone calls, knocking on doors, and providing visibility. Mark the date on your calendars: November 8th. And keep an eye out for a DFNH Action Alert to let you know how you can get involved!