Iris Estabrook

Here's a review of the state Senate playing field as we begin the summer.

The races are divided into five categories: Strong Democratic, Lean Democratic, Toss-up, Lean Republican and Strong Republican.

Let's start with the Democrats:

The current PolitickerNH.com online poll asks which state senate candied is most likely to be unopposed this year and right now Amanda “Mandy” Merrill is in second place with 18% of the vote.  If Dover sources are correct you can scratch Merrill off that list.

Inside Edge has confirmed with a Dover source that former Dover Mayor Alex Nossiff is getting really close to throwing his hat into the ring for the senate seat being vacated by Iris Estabrooks.  Nossiff will more than likely make an official announcement in the next week, but is really close to jumping in.

Amanda "Mandy" Merrill (D-Durham) has officially declared that she is running for the state senate.

Merrill is running for the seat being abandoned by state Sen. Iris Estabrook (D-Durham).

"I believe my experience has prepared me for the challenges of being a state Senator," Merrill said in a statement. "As a House member I found great satisfaction in collaborating with lawmakers of all political stripes to pass legislation on education policy, energy and air quality, land conservation, solid waste, and ethics guidelines. I look forward to working with legislative colleagues and Governor John Lynch to address the economic, educational, and environmental issues that affect the lives of the people of District 21."

Amanda "Mandy" Merrill has decided to run for the state senate, three sources tell PolitickerNH.com.

Merrill will be running for the office being vacated by state Sen. Iris Estabrook (D-Durham). Estabrook will support Merrill's candidacy.

State Sen. Iris Estabrook (D-Durham)State Sen. Iris Estabrook (D-Durham) has decided not to run for a fourth term.

"I no longer feel I can commit the level of time and energy I believe is necessary to fill this leadership role," Estabrook said in a press release.  "It has been an honor to have served in the New Hampshire Legislature and an experience that will stay with me throughout my life."