A Statement from Chris Bright

I first ran for Congress because I was genuinely concerned about the divisiveness of our country and the elected leaders who seemed more focused on themselves and what they could gain by serving in public office rather than concerning themselves with fixing the problems they were elected to solve. Furthermore, I am in disbelief with the radical agendas being pushed by the Democratic party and the lack of empathy and respect shown towards Independents and Republicans who disagree with them.

About a month ago I learned of a new potential candidate entering the CD1 race; someone I both knew and respected. For years this person has been a strong supporter of common sense solutions and has quietly been working behind the scenes to support and fund some of the biggest civic endeavors in New Hampshire. Over the course of several conversations I realized that this person had a significantly more robust network and was better resourced than I am. While my campaign has put in incredible work and we currently poll as the frontrunner, I have decided to step down as a candidate and merge my efforts with this new candidate who will be announcing their candidacy in the near future.

I have always believed that you lead by example: you don't just talk the talk but you live those words. A crowded, contested primary field only dilutes resources and creates a divided front. It is more important that we finally win a Congressional seat and if it means stepping aside so a better resourced candidate can give us the best chance against a well-funded, organized and angry Democratic machine then I want to do what's best for the State and be a team player.

This is bittersweet for me. I thoroughly enjoyed the spirited debates, conversations and meetings with people all across this amazing State. I can assure you that I will not be going anywhere. I am going to be throwing my support behind this new candidate and will be helping them, as well as rolling out a new policy-based 501C(4) which will address some of the biggest issues I heard while campaigning. I ran because I wanted to fix the problems. I can do that just as effectively (and maybe even more effectively) outside of politics.

I love this country and New Hampshire has welcomed me and become my home over the last 20 years of living here. I will always put the best interests of my country, my family and my friends ahead of my own. I was taught that at West Point. Today, I hope others will follow my lead and come together to find common ground and get to work addressing all the challenges we face. It has been my honor meeting you all and the work has only just begun!