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William (Bill) O'Brien is a N.H. state representative from Mont Vernon. Formerly the Speaker of the N.H. House (2010-2012), O'Brien was re-elected to the position in November 2014.

Former House Speaker O'Brien Inches Closer To Congressional Run

NHPR

Representative Bill O’Brien says he will file paperwork next week to launch a campaign committee in advance of a possible run for New Hampshire’s 2nd Congressional District.

The Mont Vernon Republican says polling he’s done shows widespread dissatisfaction with freshman Democrat Ann McLaneKuster. From overspending in Washington to late payment of her own property taxes in Hopkinton, O'Brien says, "Ann McLaneKuster doesn't get it."

O’Brien says voters in the district are unhappy with Kuster’s positions on taxes and the Federal deficit, and are already seeking change.

"I don’t think people are looking at solutions from a point of view of Republicans or Democrats, or liberal or conservative. They are just looking for solutions that will work."

In his one term as Speaker, O’Brien pushed to make New Hampshire a right-to-work state, fought to tighten restrictions on abortion, and loosen restrictions on guns.

O’Brien’s announcement elicited a quick response from New Hampshire Democrats. In a statement, Party Chair Ray Buckley says, "It’s hard to imagine anyone less capable of representing the interests of New Hampshire families and taxpayers in Washington."

Other Republicans said to be considering runs are Former State Senator Gary Lambert and conservative activist Karen Testerman. 

Todd started as a news correspondent with NHPR in 2009. He spent nearly a decade in the non-profit world, working with international development agencies and anti-poverty groups. He holds a master’s degree in public administration from Columbia University.
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