Politics & Government

Jim Rubens Challenging Shaheen for U.S. Senate

He repeatedly criticized incumbent Jeanne Shaheen in his speech.

By Marc Fortier and Ryan O'Connor

Jim Rubens announced his candidacy for U.S. Senate at a press conference in Concord on Wednesday.

Rubens, a Republican and former state senator, used the press conference as an opportunity to attack incumbent U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). So far, Rubens is Shaheen's only official opponent in the 2014 election.

Rubens called Shaheen "a career politician and party rubber stamp" who is "dangerously wrong on national defense," citing her support for President Obama's initial request for military action against Syria. He repeatedly tried to tie Shaheen to President Obama and Obamacare. He also said Shaheen is "out of touch" with New Hampshire voters and should hold more town hall meetings with residents.

The New Hampshire Democratic Party issued a statement attacking Rubens, saying he's the one who is out of touch with New Hampshire.

"He boasts a 'pampered life,' brags about 'private charter flights,' 'private bungalows,' and his 'million dollar house' and 'investment portfolio,'" New Hampshire Democratic Party Communications Director Harrell Kirstein said. "Rubens simply doesn't get it and doesn't understand the challenges facing New Hampshire’s working families... Jim Rubens is wrong for New Hampshire."

Attached above is a video excerpt from Rubens' press conference.


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