Noting that there are "two quality candidates" in the Republican primary for the 1st Congressional District, the Portsmouth Herald endorsed John Stephen on Tuesday.

"While we do not agree with him on a number of issues [...] we believe his call for fiscally conservative policies and practices and his determination to hold lawmakers accountable for their votes will provide a needed burst of idealism in the halls of Congress," says the editorial.

"Stephen has laid out detailed and thoughtful plans for energy independence," it continues. "While we disagree with his call for increased domestic oil production on land and offshore sites currently banned by Congress — in part because their effectiveness on energy prices is a subject of serious debate — we appreciate his forward thinking on energy tax credits for individuals and businesses to foster innovation and economic growth in the alternative energy sector."

Stephens, who had previously won the endorsement of the New Hampshire Union Leader, said he was "thrilled to receive the support of the Portsmouth Herald."

"They have always been strong advocates for effective, accountable government that delivers results. Unfortunately, we have not seen that from Washington is years."