In a race Republicans believe will win them back majority status on the Executive Council, Merrimack County Attorney Dan St. Hilaire defeated two others in the District 3 primary tonight, advancing him to take on freshman incumbent Democrat John Shea.

In an interview St. Hilaire said he won because of "hard work that we will continue on to November."

With 45 percent of the vote counted, St. Hilaire had 67 percent of the vote over small businessman Bernie Sparks and former Executive Councilor Richard Wasson.

St. Hillaire said he was running to be a better representative for the district, create greater spending efficiency in state contracts, and improve roads and bridges.

Asked why he thinks Shea needs to go, he demurred.

"I will let voters come up with that decision. I am just putting myself out there and laying out my agenda," he said.