NH Primary Source: Messner campaign launches veterans coalition headed by state Rep. Edwards
(New Hampshire Primary Source is a regular feature of WMUR.com on Thursday mornings, with frequent updates throughout the week.)
VETERANS COALITION. Republican U.S. Senate candidate Bryant “Corky” Messner this week launched a campaign coalition to connect with veterans throughout the state and nationally.
The veterans coalition is headed by state Rep. Jess Edwards, R-Auburn, who is a new endorsement for Messner’s campaign. Edwards chairs the legislative Veterans Interest Caucus and served 33 years in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2009.
Another member of the committee and a new endorsement is Carol Moore of Hampton Falls, a retired U.S. Marine Corps Major who served many years and worked in intelligence and program development in Washington, D.C. during the Reagan administration.
Edwards cited Messner’s service in the U.S. Army as an Infantry Company Commander.
“Corky is well-qualified to serve in the U.S. Senate,” Edwards said. "His philosophy of government and its relationship to the people is particularly appealing to me. He has internalized the preamble to our Constitution and understands the legal and political environment in which we live."
Messner said, “I am privileged to have the support of these veterans as we continue to address the challenges facing the men and women who have proudly served their country. I look forward to continuing to work on behalf of New Hampshire veterans and address the issues they face and the services they need in civilian life.”
Joining the coalition as national advisers are two high-ranking military officers who have previously been announced as Messner supporters, retired four-star Army Gen. John Campbell, who is a former Army vice chief of staff, and retired Lt. Gen. David Halverson, who had 37 years of service. Both joined Messner for a veterans roundtable last fall.
The campaign said additional coalition members will be announced.
Messner is competing in a Republican U.S. Senate primary against retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Donald Bolduc. The winner of the Sept. 8 primary will challenge incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen in the general election.
