Despite great help from DFNH and Nashua area supporters, I'm sorry to report that I lost my first campaign by 117 votes, out of over 14,000 ballots cast.

While it's an emotional letdown to learn I won't be able to serve in the Legislature this session, the experience has reaffirmed my committment to fight for ethics in government, for fairness for the people - particularly those who are neediest - and to make our state better.

And we scored some great victories in other DFNH Dozen races: Maggie Hassan's defeat of Senator Russell Prescott, and Debora Pignatelli's victory over Exec Councilor Dave Wheeler, being probably the two most-important races where DFNH played a significant role.

The election is over... but the real work of making positive change begins now - and DFNH can play a vital role... if YOU help.

It's thrilling to see how DFNH, in a matter of months, geared up to become an effective grassroots force in New Hampshire's political landscape. And one that, unlike the "527's", will be here tomorrow, next week, and next year, focused on our own state and the Progressive values we hold dear.


read full story


I hope you'll join me over the next year, and work to help grow Democracy for New Hampshire into an even larger, better-funded and more potent organization. One with a regular voice in the press, and effective communications channels into the Legislature and state agencies. And most importantly, a growing, active membership statewide... networked through email, the internet, monthly meetups, and committee meetings... all with local community control and a common voice.

We made a great start in our first year... we can make a REAL statement in 2005 and 2006. So please plan to roll up your sleeves after the holidays and get to work building your local DFNH/DFA group and our statewide program.

Let me close by saying thanks again to DFNH, DFA, and all of you who helped me and the other DFNH dozen candidates with our campaigns. Your efforts made a real difference - from the bottom of the ticket up to the very top.

And I'll be back to try again in 2006!

Paul