CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Long a rising star within the Republican party, U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte is now touting her bipartisan credentials as she faces a challenge from Democratic Gov. Maggie Hassan in a race that could help determine control of the Senate.
The 47-year-old Ayotte won her seat in 2010 and quickly carved out a name as a foreign policy hawk. She’s stood alongside her party on issues such as gun control and opposition to the Affordable Care Act, but she’s also become one of the senators most likely to cross party lines.
As the contest begins, Ayotte will highlight her work on veteran’s health care, college affordability and the environment in an effort to win over independent voters.
Democrats, meanwhile, are already painting her as a loyal foot soldier for Republican interests.