Considering the severity of the problems New Hampshire faces in the next two years, we aren’t sure why he wants the job, but it is clear that Ovide Lamontagne is the right man at the right time to do it.

This is a crucial election, both for the state and nation. Having Lamontagne top the ticket for governor helps the Republican Party across the board.

Actually, Lamontagne’s life story provides a good indication of why he has stepped forward now. He has helped build and oversee the business at one of the state’s most successful law firms. He has chaired the board of the nation’s first credit union. He has been legal aide to the state Senate.

But while doing all this and raising a remarkable family, Lamontagne has also helped his state, his community and his church with untold years of volunteer service. He KNOWS New Hampshire, top to bottom, side to side, like few others; he knows the tough road ahead and he has the business experience and tough fiscal backbone that will be needed.

Lamontagne could have politely said “no thanks” to this challenge. Timing, money and vicious foes had derailed his past efforts at political office and it would be understandable if he said “enough.” But Ovide Lamontagne remains committed to public service and to New Hampshire. GOP voters on Tuesday would be wise to grab him.