Kelly Ayotte, Joyce Craig Advance to November Showdown in New Hampshire Governor’s Race

New Hampshire voters have chosen their candidates for governor, with former U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte easily winning the Republican primary Tuesday, while former Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig narrowly secured the Democratic nomination.

Ayotte, who led in polls throughout the race, decisively defeated former state Senate President Chuck Morse. Her strong name recognition and an endorsement from Gov. Chris Sununu in August helped propel her victory. Although Morse emphasized his support for former President Donald Trump, Ayotte’s broader appeal ultimately won over voters.

“I just think she’s the most qualified,” Hampton voter Don Bibeau said after casting his ballot for Ayotte.

Other Republican voters, such as Paula and Steve Ellis, chose Ayotte because of her chances of winning, with Paula Ellis noting, “She’s the only person who can beat the Democrats.”

On the Democratic side, Craig narrowly defeated Executive Councilor Cinde Warmington. Craig’s six years as mayor of Manchester helped her stand out, and many voters cited her executive experience as a key factor in their decision.

“I like that she was a former mayor,” said Democratic voter Meghan Orgen, who has listed reproductive rights and gun control as her top priorities.

New Hampshire voters will head to the polls again in November, where key issues like abortion rights, housing costs and the opioid crisis are expected to dominate the race. The general election is rated as “uncertain” by the Cook Political Report.

More: Ayotte Wins, Craig Takes on Warmington in 2024 NH State Primary: Live Updates

Jeremy Yurow is a Hawaii-based political reporter for the USA TODAY Network. You can reach him at [email protected] or on X, formerly Twitter @JeremyYurow

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New Hampshire gubernatorial election decided between Kelly Ayotte and Joyce Craig