New Hampshire Republican U.S. Senate hopeful Kelly Ayotte is having to deal with inane barbs and silly comparisons from inside and outside her own party.  That must mean she’s the real deal.  According the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee’s website, they’ve issued no fewer than 5 press releases and 1 web video focused on the former attorney general.  Compare that to 3 releases and 1 video for Florida Governor (and also former attorney general) Charlie Crist, and none for current Utah A.G. Mark Shurtleff.  Guess they really do fear that Kelly Ayotte is the future U.S. Senator from New Hampshire.

All the talk and nonsense about her going to Washington, or hosting a fundraiser at the NRSC headquarters on 2nd Street is just that – process driven nonsense that has zero bearing on her skills as a candidate or a policy maker.  Why go to Washington?  Because there are some smart policy and political minds who are worth talking to there.  Why host a fundraiser at the NRSC?  Because it’s the fiscally conservative smart thing to do.  They provide a facility for candidates that cost a whole bucket load less than reserving a room at some hotel or restaurant in DC.  Call it good use of precious campaign funds.

At this point – it looks like the Ayotte narrative will be this:  She’s a sharp and tough lawyer, with a real selfless bent toward public service, connects well with voters and wants what’s best for her home state and her family.  It’s up to the DSCC, and Paul Hodes (on the Dem side), and Ovide Lamontagne – the only other Republican to take real steps to run – to provide their own Ayotte narrative in a credible and effective fashion.

Tags: 2010, kelly ayotte, new hampshire, ovide lamontagne, paul hodes