Terie Norelli

House Speaker Terie Norelli (D-Portsmouth) said she is planning to run again for the lower-chamber's top post.

"I will be running again for Speaker," Norelli told PolitickerNH.com. "I look forward to another two years."

NASHUA-- As a result of voter registration trends New Hampshire Democratic Party Chairman Ray Buckley said he is "confident" that the Democrats will retain control of the state legislature.

"The transformation happening in New Hampshire is making me feel confident that we can keep the majority in the state senate and house," Buckley said.

State Rep. Jim Ryan (D-Franklin) says that he will resign his position and not seek re-election in November.

Ryan, who has been jailed for charges relating to a forgery case, told The Citizen he sent a letter of resignation to House Speaker Terie Norelli.

State Rep. Jim Ryan (D-Franklin) has been removed as chairman of the House Transportation Committee and as co-chair of the Committee to Elect House Democrats.

"I was shocked and saddened to learn of the charges against Rep. Ryan. It is critically important the public have confidence in the integrity of the legislative process," House Speaker Terie Norelli said in a statement. "That is why I have taken immediate action and removed Rep. Ryan as chair of the House Transportation Committee. He will be replaced by the committee's vice chair, Rep. Robert Williams of Concord."

DENVER- House Speaker Terie Norelli (D-Portsmouth) says she is "very optimistic" about the Democrats maintaining control over the House.

"I'm feeling very optimistic about making history again in November with back-to-back Democratic victories," Norelli told PolitickerNH.com.

ROCHESTER-- Over the past two days, Democrats have been criticizing U.S. Sen. John McCain's (R-Ariz.) votes against increasing funding for a home heating assistance program.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides funding to citizens who need help paying their home oil bills. Democrats say McCain has voted against increased funding five times.