There was a bit of a stir in New Hampshire Democratic quarters when the Governor, John Lynch, endorsed Republican Senator Bob Odell, who's been serving in the New Hampshire Senate since 2002, for another term, despite the fact that Jay Phinizy, a fully qualified Democrat is seeking election in district eight.

But, now it turns out that there are qualifications and there are qualifications. And Odell probably has Phinizy trumped in spades. After all, Robert P. Odell, Jr. has a political pedigree going back all the way to Richard Nixon's Committee to Re-elect the President (CREEP).

In addition, as his biographical entry for Odell, Simms and Associates reveals, there are no gaps in Odell's political enterprise.

Robert P. Odell, Jr., Founder and Chairman - Bob Odell has garnered international recognition for his innovative and diverse fundraising, marketing, and economic development campaigns. Having served as Executive Director of the Republican National Finance Committee from 1969-74, he has provided senior finance consulting services to the campaigns of almost every Republican presidential nominee since 1970. In addition to overseeing and contributing to strategic marketing campaigns for OSA’s clients, Mr. Odell has served as a New Hampshire State Senator since 2002.

Who knew we had such an important person serving the people of our state and making predictions that, because of the dire straits into which our economy has been thrown, the citizens of New Hampshire who rely on human services programs are going to have to tighten their belts.

Some state programs may have to be cut to bring the budget into balance, which is required by the state Constitution, according to Odell.

“I think that, sadly, the place everybody will have to look is the Department of Health and Human Services, and that would have to be done gingerly and would have to be done wisely because so much of the money there is tied to the federal money,” Odell said. “You’ve got to do something, because I don’t see us adding new revenue.”

Seems like Robert P. Odell, Jr. has been hiding his candle under a bushel. But, our ambitious Governor seems to have a clue about which side his bread is buttered on. Odell, Simms and Associates would seem to be a powerful group to have on your side. Senior Vice President, Anthony J. Lynch is probably no relation.