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Patience: Key states still counting votes
As expected, there was no clear winner in the US Presidential race on election night. As of this writing, Biden leads Trump in electoral college votes, but with several key states still counting votes the race is not likely to be called for several days.While we await a clear election result, we must exercise patience. We must trust in our democratic systems to count every vote and remain civil to our fellow Americans. SEA stands with all workers while we await this important result. Our nation has always held elections and upheld the results, even in times of great crisis. Now it’s our turn to show that nothing—not this pandemic or this president—will stand in our way of ensuring that every vote counts and that we count every vote. No matter the result, we will never stop fighting for workers right in the Granite State.
Election 2020
NH Congressional Results
Tuesday night, the Granite State reported incredible voter turnout and returned results on four important races. Senator Jeanne Shaheen secured a third term over GOP challenger Bryant “Corky” Messner and declared victory early in the evening.
Representative Annie Kuster won a fifth term over GOP candidate Steve Negron, who previously challenged her seat in 2018. Kuster’s re-election makes her the first NH woman to be elected five times to a federal office. Representative Chris Pappas faced a contentious race against GOP challenger Matt Mowers, but ultimately won a second term with a 6-point lead over Mowers.
NH election officials have been concerned about election night for months, citing complications from the pandemic and rising tensions surrounding the Presidential race. However, election officials have reported a functional and safe voting process throughout the state.
NH Gubernatorial Results
Governor Sununu won a third term over Democratic candidate Dan Feltes with almost 65% of the vote. Dan Feltes conceded Tuesday night and delivered a statement via Facebook Live.
The 2020 Election has come and gone. Despite tonight’s outcome, we must continue to fight for NH workers. Our power to influence change is greatest when we stand together for our collective rights. A strong and active membership is the backbone of any union. We strongly encourage you to make your voice heard through one of our committees. Finally, a special thank you to all our members who have volunteered this election cycle. Your labor on behalf of SEA is immensely appreciated.
NH Updates
Gov. extends state of emergency
On October 30, Governor Sununu extended NH’s state of emergency for 21 days. This was expected, as COVID-19 cases continue to rise in the Granite State. As of November 2, there are 1,352 active cases of COVID-19 in NH.
SEA advises members to continue to take COVID-19 precautions seriously as we enter the eighth month of this deadly, global pandemic that has infected more than 9 million Americans. Please wear a mask, practice social distancing, and comply with all contract tracing efforts to keep our community healthy.
Union Updates
WIN for State Workers at PELRB
On Monday, November 2nd, the PELRB issued a decision on our question of whether the legislature Fact Finder’s Report vote was binding or not. Unfortunately, the Board determined that the vote was not binding on the parties, and instead is intended only to create pressure on the parties to reach a deal and further inform the parties that fact finder’s recommendation would be funded (or not) by the legislature.
The SEA believes that the Board’s decision was in error and further believes that the decision may be appealed appropriately to the Supreme Court. Our Legal and Political teams will be working closely to see about resolving this matter legislatively.
Thanksgiving Day Race
SEA and Campaign for Public Good member Regina Flynn has been directing the Free Fall 5K in Rochester NH for the past 5 years. The 5K takes place on Thanksgiving Day and 100% of proceeds go to local charities.
The race is happening this year following the NH COVID guidelines and with a virtual option, as well.
Registration is just $20 and all participants get a custom Hoo-Rag™ neck gaiter, perfect for winter running. The virtual option allows you to run or walk 3.1 miles on the day you choose while supporting the Homeless Center for Strafford County, Jerry’s Food Pantry, and SOS Recovery.
Register here and help make our event a success!
Welcome New Board Members
At the 2020 SEA convention, Delegates voted in several new members to the Board of Directors. Please join us in welcoming Kristy Blanchette (Ch. 37, Employment Security), Corey Dearborn (Ch. 16, Youth Detention Services Unit), Kathy Mather (Ch. 13, Lakes Region Community College), and Brenda Thomas (Administrative Services).
We also want to acknowledge Phillip Burt (Ch. 16, Health & Human Services), Avis Crane (Ch. 1), and Jim Nall (Ch. 9, Glencliff Home) for their service on the Board of Directors. Thank you for your dedication to the SEA and labor rights.
Current Board of Directors:
John Amrol – Retiree; Mikayla Bourque – Employment Security; Peter Brunette – Environmental Services; Mike Derderian – Liquor; Heather Fairchild – Health & Human Services; Mary Fields – Health & Human Services; Kimothy Griffin – Department of Education; John Hattan – Health & Human Services; Germano Martins – Health & Human Services; Ken Muske – Employment Security; Cindy Perkins – Employment Security; Cheryl Towne – Department of Corrections
Backpack Drive: Black Friday Shopping
In preparation for next year’s backpack drive, we are asking members to purchase backpacks for NH students during Black Friday and Holiday shopping. You will likely find lower priced items during holiday sales that can be donated to NH students in need next fall.