New Hampshire Republican Fred Tausch announced today that will he will not enter the 2010 New Hampshire Republican Senate primary. Many observers had expected Tausch, a wealthy Nashua businessman, to challenge New Hampshire attorney general Kelly Ayotte for the Republican nomination. Ayotte is considered the frontrunner in the race.
The seat is currently occupied by Sen. Judd Gregg, R-N.H., who has said he will not run for re-election when his term expires next November.
“Many Republicans have encouraged me to be their voice as a candidate for office next year,” Tausch said in a statement. “It was an honor to be approached and I gave the prospect serious consideration. But after careful deliberation, I’ve decided not to enter public service at this time.”
Despite the move by Tausch, Ayotte may still face a competitive primary challenger in former state Board of Education Chairman Ovide Lamontagne.
The winner of the Republican primary will likely face Rep. Paul Hodes, the Democrat who represents the western half of New Hampshire, in next year’s general election.
The Hill has more.
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