Benson: ‘We must move forward’

Editor’s note: Following is the statement put on Governor Benson’s campaign Web site after his loss to John Lynch in the Nov. 2 election.

Friends, Taxpayers, Citizens, Campaign Supporters, I cannot thank you enough for all of your hard work and efforts on my behalf. The record voter participation is something we should be proud of, however we must always strive to ensure our elections are fair.

It has been an honor to serve as your Governor for the past two years. Together we have a lot of which we can be proud. We passed the first budget in decades that did not contain any new taxes or tax increases, and has lead to a surplus. We have streamlined state government and made it more responsive to the needs of the citizens. We have initiated changes in our education system that will prepare our children for the demands of the 21st century. We have provided access to lower cost prescription drugs, and brought competition to our insurance market. We have lowered the unemployment rate from 5.1% to 3.5% and created thousands of new businesses. In short, we have strengthened our New Hampshire Advantage.

Today, we must move forward. I have made a call to the Governor elect and I am committed to making the transition as smooth as possible. I ask you to show the next Governor the same respect you have shown me. I ask you to be vigilant in helping to keep NH state government efficient over the next two years.

I will continue to serve as your Governor for the next 60 days. I do not yet know what opportunities lay ahead, but perhaps I will see you all on the campaign trail again.

Thank you and God Bless
Craig R. Benson, Governor