Kevin Smith: I Want To "Poach" Jobs For NH

Kevin Smith told Amherst Republicans this morning that he would “like to be Deval Patrick’s worst enemy.”

The gubernatorial candidate focused on building the state’s economy in his speech to local politicians and potential voters at Joey’s Diner Saturday morning.

Smith said that there is a “mass exodus” of people going to Massachusetts to find work, something he wants to reverse. He said he would “poach” the high-paying jobs from Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick’s state and keep skilled employees in New Hampshire.

“We are losing a lot of young people,” said Smith. “We are losing our pool of skilled labor for businesses to pull from.”

He told the audience that New Hampshire has a “much better” quality of life than Massachusetts and can be a better place to do businesses with some changes.

The Republican candidate claimed that his state has no long-range plan for building its economy and is pushing too many taxes and regulations on businesses.

As governor, he would lower the state’s business profits tax and business enterprise tax in order to help grow business.

“We need to send a message to small businesses in this state that we are serious about creating an environment to let them grow,” he said.

Smith took some shots at the Gov. John Lynch, who will not be seeking re-election this year.

“He is a nice guy, but has absolutely has no backbone,” said Smith. “As governor you need a backbone.”

Smith resigned as executive director of Cornerstone Action and Cornerstone Policy Research, which work to influence policy for conservatives, last year.

While his recent position had him lobbying for conservative social issues along with others, Smith has been in the state.

He responded to the question of gay marriage from a voter on Saturday by saying his top priority would be making jobs, but if that issue comes to his desk, he would remain consistent with his conservative values.

Smith faces  in the race for the Republican nomination for governor. Buinessman Steve Kenda of North Hampton this week also launched an exploratory committee for a candidacy. Meanwhile,  for the Democratic nomination.

Other candidates may enter the race; the filing period does not open until June.

More information on Kevin Smith and his campaign can be found at KevinSmithForGovernor.com