Hours before their second debate, congressional candidates Jeb Bradley (R-Wolfeboro) and John Stephen (R-Manchester) announced endorsements for their respective campaigns.

Bradley released a group of 50 people who will comprise his Public Safety Coalition, while Stephen said his campaign has been endorsed by the National Vietnam & Gulf War Veterans Coalition.

""I am truly honored by the support and advice I have received and will continue to receive from these men and women.  Law Enforcement and Fire Chiefs are a unique group of individuals," Bradley said in a statement. "They chose a path in life that leads them into danger for the safety of strangers."

Stephen said he would make veterans issues a top priority if he was elected to Congress.

"I am thrilled to receive the endorsement of this important group who has done so much to ensure that our veterans get the support they need after they return home," Stephen said in a press release. "We will make sure that our veterans know that we appreciate their services and are welcomed home with the respect that they deserve."

Stephen and Bradley are competing in the 1st Congressional District Republican primary. The winner of the primary will face current U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-Rochester).