Concord – The New Hampshire Republican and Democrat parties kicked off the general election campaign today sending very two different messages.  The Republican State Committee gathered New Hampshire Republicans at a Unity Breakfast where a message consistent with New Hampshire values of lower taxes, less government and more freedom was the rallying cry.  In contrast, the Democrat event was headlined by a liberal U.S. Senator from Connecticut who is at odds with the values of New Hampshire voters.

"New Hampshire Republicans gathered in Concord to tout the Republican accomplishments that have made New Hampshire the most livable state in America this morning and 20 miles south the Democrats were preparing to rally around a liberal U.S. Senator from Connecticut who is committed to raising taxes and gun control," said Chairman Wayne Semprini.  "That sends a pretty clear message to voters about who will represent their values in both Washington and the State House."

New Hampshire Republicans are committed to running issue campaigns focused on results.  Democrats are focused on distracting from issues like a state income tax by parading big name national Democrats in and out of the state.

"Voters know what is at stake and they can see past the star power of the national Democrats and recognize them for what they are: pro-tax, big government, anti-gun liberals who do not share our values," said Semprini. "The choice is clear: Democrats will increase taxes; Republicans will hold the line so that New Hampshire remains income tax free.  Democrats will look to increase government and decrease freedom.  Republicans will fight for opportunity."

Chris Dodd on Taxes:
• Voted NO on permanently repealing the `death tax`. (Jun 2006)
• Voted NO on extending the tax cuts on capital gains and dividends. (Nov 2005)
• Voted NO on $350 billion in tax breaks over 11 years. (May 2003)
• Voted NO on eliminating the 'marriage penalty'. (Jul 2000)
• Voted NO on across-the-board spending cuts. (Oct 1999)
• Voted NO on requiring a super-majority for raising taxes. (Apr 1998)
• Rated 15% by NTU, indicating a "Big Spender" on tax votes. (Dec 2003)
 

Chris Dodd on Guns:
• Based on lifetime voting records on gun issues and the results of a questionnaire sent to all Congressional candidates in 2004, the National Rifle Association assigned Dodd a grade of F (with grades ranging from a high of A+ to a low of F)
 

Documentation: http://www.ontheissues.org/Economic/Chris_Dodd_Tax_Reform.htm