Special Election to Fill Councilor Burton’s Seat

January 21 primary, March 11 election

NH Executive Council press release

We are all deeply saddened by the loss of Councilor Ray Burton, New Hampshire’s public servant and champion of the North Country. His dedication to the citizens of New Hampshire was unparalleled, and he will be sorely missed.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Councilor Burton will be held on Saturday, December 14, at Plymouth State University’s Hartman Union Building at 1 PM.

While the District 1 Executive Council seat is vacant, the Executive Council office will gladly handle all questions, issues, and concerns. Please feel free to contact us at 271-3632 or GCweb@nullnh.gov.

“All of New Hampshire continues to mourn the passing of Ray Burton, one of the most dedicated and caring public servants that the North Country and our entire state have ever known,” Governor Hassan said. “Though no one can truly replace Councilor Burton, and the pain of his loss remains fresh, Ray would want the people’s work to move forward as quickly as possible. I look forward to a spirited, issue-focused campaign process that truly reflects Ray Burton’s legacy of unmatched service to the people of New Hampshire.”

There will be a Special Election to fill the vacant Executive Council position for District 1. The primary election will be held on Tuesday, January 21, with three Republican candidates running:

  • Christopher Boothby of Meredith, a former Belknap County Commissioner
  • Joe Kenney of Wakefield, a former state senator and 2008 Republican gubernatorial nominee
  • Mark Aldrich of Lebanon, a former state director for former US Senators Gordon Humphrey and Bob Smith.

On Tuesday, March 11, Town Meeting Day, the winner of the Republican primary will face Grafton County Commissioner Michael Cryans of Hanover.