New Hampshire Senate Democratic leader Jeff Woodburn's name will remain on the ballot next month, even if he resigns following his arrest on domestic violence charges.
Woodburn was arrested Thursday and is now facing nine charges, including simple assault, domestic violence, criminal mischief and trespassing. The New Hampshire Attorney General's Office says on several different occasions since last summer, Woodburn allegedly hit his partner in the stomach, bit her hand and forearm, threw water at her and broke into her home.
Woodburn has been facing bipartisan calls for his resignation following his arrest.
Outside of his Whitefield home on Friday afternoon, he told NBC10 Boston's Katherine Underwood how he plans to deal with the charges against him.
"This is going to be in court and I am looking forward to telling my side of the story. Until then, I can't comment," said Woodburn.
The Senate Minority Leader said he plans to fight the accusations against him.
Colleagues who know Woodburn well say the accusations are out of character.
Local
In-depth news coverage of the Greater Boston Area.
"I think I was shocked and devastated by the news," said House Minority Leader Steve Shurtleff. "Completely unexpected."
Shurtleff joined Gov. Chris Sununu and lawmakers from both parties calling for Woodburn to resign immediately.
"This is a very serious matter," Shurtleff said.
Most Granite Staters NBC10 Boston spoke with agreed that Woodburn should step down.
"It's completely unacceptable," said Ben Garfield of Bow.
Others said the three-term senator deserves his day in court.
"Until he's proved guilty, I think he should keep doing his job," said Jerry Chauvette of Concord.
Woodburn is out of jail on bail until his Aug. 20 arraignment.
When he was asked about the calls for his resignation, he said he hasn't decided.
Should he resign, Woodburn's name will remain on the Sept. 11 primary ballot. The secretary of state's office says names can only be removed in limited circumstances, including death, serious illness or moving out of a district.
Woodburn doesn't face a primary challenger.
