O'Brien Wins Republican Caucus, Nominated Speaker Again

State Rep. William O’Brien, R-Mont Vernon, is the Republican nominee as the next Speaker of the House, according to a caucus vote today where he beat former Speaker, state Rep. Gene Chandler, R-Bartlett, by a handful of votes, according to sources.

Despite a move by moderates and U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte, R-NH, who is up for re-election in two years, to derail his effort, O’Brien prevailed by about four votes.

House Democratic Leader state Rep. Steve Shurtleff, D-Penacook, also offered congratulations and stated that he hoped O’Brien would “continue the respect and decorum established during the past term” where Shurtleff had “established a reputation as a bipartisan leader who works well with my friends across the aisle.”

Senate President Chuck Morse, R-Salem, issued congratulations saying that he looked forward to working with, as well as other Republicans and Democrats, “to balance New Hampshire’s budget, improve our economy, and deliver vital state services to those most in need.”

Depending on your political perspective, this was a great day, a travesty, or a potential opportunity. Here is some of the reaction on Twitter during the last hour.

Photo courtesy of state Rep. Al Baldasaro, R-Londonderry, via Twitter.