Politicos Remember ‘Stretch’ Kennedy

Politicians from around the capital region are remembering former state Rep. Richard “Stretch” Kennedy, R-Hopkinton, who passed away yesterday after an illness. He was 80.

Kennedy served six terms in the House and was a strong supporter of 2nd Amendment rights. He was also well-respected by people on both sides of the aisle.

In a statement, New Hampshire GOP State Chairwoman Jennifer Horn said she was “deeply sadden by Stretch's passing” and asked that people keep Kennedy’s family in their thoughts.

"Stretch was a tireless advocate for conservative principles and a fierce defender of our Second Amendment rights,” she said. “He was a caring individual who was beloved by Republican activists across New Hampshire because of his colorful and one-of-a-kind personality.”

Gov. Maggie Hassan, D-Exeter, called him “a dedicated & passionate public servant” on Twitter yesterday, saying her thoughts and prayers go out to this family and loved ones.

U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-NH, who was state Senator and later governor when Kennedy was in the House, said she was “sad” to hear of his passing, noting on Twitter, “We rarely agreed on issues but he was a man of principle & a good natured warrior.” Shaheen added that his support for repealing a prohibition on lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, and transgendered couples from adopting or becoming foster parents “was critical” and said her thoughts were with this family.

Kennedy was ousted in the Democratic landslide in 2008 but staged a comeback in 2012, after Hopkinton was redistricted into a three-seat floterial district with Concord’s Ward 5. He received the most votes of the Republicans running that year but failed to win back a House seat.