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In case you missed it, Democrats from all over the Granite State gathered at the Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel on Saturday for the NHDP’s Martha Fuller Clark Diamond Birthday Celebration. The event was completely sold out, with over 250 guests virtually and in-person.
Our federal delegation and Granite State Democratic leaders were joined by special guest U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar to honor Senator Fuller Clark’s milestone birthday and to help elect Democrats from the Seacoast to the North Country this November.
Granite State Democrats were also joined by Portsmouth Mayor Deaglan McEachern, Senate Democratic Leader Donna Soucy, Senator Rebecca Perkins Kwoka and New Hampshire Women’s Foundation President Tanna Clews.
Key Excerpts:
When the Clarks arrived, a cacophony of applause filled the ballroom. "It is such a privilege to be honored by so many Democrats," said Fuller Clark. "I have such great supporters in New Hampshire and Washington. I feel privileged to call you all my friends."
Democratic Chairman Ray Buckley emceed, as speakers praised Fuller Clark, describing her patience, generosity and the willingness to mentor new people considering a career in politics. There were lists of her accomplishments, like her work for women's rights, energy and the environment.
As he blew her a kiss, [Martha’s Husband Dr. Geoffrey] Clark said, "Martha, I am so very proud of you."
"The love for you in this room has no limits," said Klobuchar. "The people who stood on your shoulders created this city of the open door. And you created the next generation of leaders, who can now stand on their own."
One of those people, Rebecca Perkins Kwoka, now holds the state senate seat from which Fuller Clark retired in 2020. "It is an honor to be here to celebrate a mentor," said Perkins Kwoka. "I hope I can continue her work, her legacy in women's rights, housing and energy issues in the state."
Assistant Mayor Joanna Kelley said Fuller Clark is a guiding light for the city, "She has always shown that we can make a difference.”
"The love for you in this room has no limits," said U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar. "The people who stood on your shoulders created this city of the open door. And you created the next generation of leaders, who can now stand on their own."
U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen said she has been working with Fuller Clark for more than 40 years.
"She leaves a legacy to Portsmouth and to the entire state," said U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen. "I have known Martha since she came to help me with the Somersworth Children's Festival, in 1980. I am glad I got a chance to watch her important work over the years."
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