Congressional hopeful Shawn O’Connor is denying allegations that he sought payment from the state Democratic Party to withdraw from his primary race.
O’Connor, a Bedford businessman and political newcomer, is seeking the Democratic nomination in New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District, a seat now held by Republican Frank Guinta. He has accused rival Carol Shea-Porter’s staff of spreading rumors that he is a perpetrator of domestic violence. Shea-Porter’s campaign denies the allegation.
On Monday, an attorney for the state Democratic Party said that O’Connor has threatened to sue the party for defamation based on vague allegations and that he has made “inappropriate and troubling demands” including suggesting that the party pay him to get out of the race.
O’Connor says that allegation is false and ridiculous given his personal wealth.