Kelley Potenza announces end to mayoral campaign, endorses Matt Mayberry

Kelley Potenza gives endorsement to Matt Mayberry (Courtesy photos)

ROCHESTER - State Rep Kelley Potenza today officially announced that she has withdrawn from the race for Mayor of Rochester and is endorsing Matt Mayberry for the city's top post. Potenza said her decision is based on her belief that Mayberry is the best candidate to bring the change and leadership that Rochester needs

"I entered this race because our city deserves leadership that puts people first," Potenza said. "For too long, City Hall has been dominated by the same establishment voices. We need new energy, new perspectives, and a renewed commitment to the taxpayers who fund this government. The people of our city work hard, and they deserve representation that works just as hard for them. I know Matt shares my vision of accountability, transparency, and a fresh approach that ensures every decision respects our residents and their tax dollars.

"I considered running for mayor because it's time for change. My goal has always been to bring integrity, common sense, and a renewed focus on the people back into city government. Matt Mayberry embodies these values and is the right person to lead Rochester forward."

Mayberry was quick to thank Potenza for her endorsement.

"Rep. Kelley Potenza is a true champion of the people," stated Mayberry. "I am very grateful for her support and her singular focus on transparency in government at all levels. Her energy and enthusiasm for campaigning are rivaled by no one. She gets to the heart of the matter, and I am grateful for her direct, unfiltered advice and counsel. I am honored to have earned her trust and her friendship. I am grateful for her endorsement."

Potenza highlighted specific issues where she believes Mayberry will deliver.

"Matt will listen to residents who have felt ignored. His focus is on creating a Rochester where young people can afford to stay and buy a home. He is committed to helping longstanding Rochester residents keep their homes in the face of skyrocketing property-tax assessments and inflated valuations. Like me, he supports responsible government that does not hand out tax breaks to wealthy developers on the backs of citizens."

She added, "Matt understands the importance of collaboration rather than conflict. The city should be working cooperatively with RAMA (the Rochester Agricultural and Mechanical Association) owners of the Rochester Fairgrounds instead of being their adversary. Residents want a revitalized, welcoming community and year-round event space for families to enjoy."

Potenza continued, "Matt and I agree that the government should not be obstructionist but should let the private market do what it does best. All development must be sound, and infrastructure--water, sewer, and energy--must be able to handle it. If development is approved, every cost for water, sewer, roads, and energy must be borne by the developer. Matt has also been a passionate advocate for conservation, protecting private property, and preserving green and agricultural spaces. We both strongly believe in protecting taxpayers and putting them first."

Potenza also noted Mayberry's longstanding ties to the area.

"Matt has been in Strafford County for over 35 years and part of the Rochester community for a long time. I'm thrilled that he made Rochester his permanent home almost two years ago. His deep roots and fresh vision make him uniquely suited to lead our city into a brighter future."

Potenza also thanked her supporters and encouraged them to unite behind Mayberry's campaign.

"I am deeply grateful to everyone who has reached out to me, shared their ideas, and given their insight into this. Although my name will not appear on the ballot, the movement for accountable, transparent, and taxpayer-focused leadership remains very much alive. Matt Mayberry is ready to carry that vision forward, and I encourage all who believed in my consideration to join me in supporting him for mayor."

For more information about Matt Mayberry's campaign visit MayberryForMayor.com or contact him at 603.969.7077 or mattmayberrynh@gmail.com