Candidates on the Issues
See how each candidate answered Seacoastonline’s questions on housing, finances, development, and Portsmouth’s future.
Compare Their AnswersElection Basics
Election Day: Tuesday, Nov 4 2025
City Council (9) — 17 candidates
School Board (9) — 8 candidates for 5 vacant seats
Police Commission (3) — 4 candidates
Fire Commission (3) — 2 candidates
Fact Checker
Candidates contest increase in city budget and staffing levels. Some facts behind the issue so you can decide for yourself. Corrections? Write progressportsmouth@gmail.com
Learn MoreAndrew Bagley
Kate Cook
Rich Blalock
JoAnna Kelley
Deaglan McEachern
John Tabor
Michelle Flynn
Annie Hopkins
Thomas Rossi
Petra Huda
Bob Sullivan
Peter Whelan
Jim Lee
Paige Trace
Rick Becksted
Esther Kennedy
Nancy Clayburgh
Genevieve Becksted Muske
Steven Adler
Lisa Rapaport
Jennifer Shump
Brian French
Albert Scherr
Jay Lieberman
Thomas Hart
Two incumbent members of the Fire Commission—Jennifer Mosher‑Matthes and Dickie Gamester—are running unopposed for re‑election. Read more
The Board of Fire Commission is comprised of three elected members serving four year terms. The commission meets monthly for organizational purposes and reviews monthly activities such as budget status, call volumes, facilities and apparatus status, training, and fire prevention.
The Commission also approves probation, promotions, and supports swearing in of new firefighters.
Each year the commission holds a public budget hearing prior to submitting budget considerations to the city council for review and approval. As needed, the commission participates in collective bargaining with two unions, in the resolution of grievances, and in the business of the city’s board of ethics.
Affordable Housing
Complex crisis in search of creative, innovative solutions.
Property Taxes
Understanding how revaluations and tax rates shape city revenue.
City Budget
Maintaining high-standard services with fiscal restraint.