Candidates' Guide
Biennially (in the odd-numbered years), the voters of Portsmouth elect their governing bodies:
City Council
School Board
Fire Commission
Police Commission
Board of Registrars
Ward Officials
Election Information
The City Council is elected at-large.* The candidate receiving the highest number of votes will be elected as Mayor.
The candidate receiving the second highest number of votes will be elected as Assistant Mayor, followed by seven Councilors.
*The City of Portsmouth is a bipartisan form of government. The City Council is elected at-large, meaning they represent all Portsmouth residents, not a single ward.
2025 Municipal Election
The following seats will be available in our Municipal Non-Partisan Election:
City Council (9 Seats); 2 Year Term
School Board (5 seats); 4 Year Term
Fire Commission (2 seats); 4 Year Term
Police Commission (2 seats); 4 Year Term
Mandatory Financial Disclosures
In accordance with City Charter, the following elected officials are required to complete a Mandatory Financial Disclosure Statement seven days before the election, with a final report, no later than two weeks following the election, and mid-term: City Council School Board Police Commission Fire Commission Political Action Committees (PAC) A candidate must report any cumulative amounts exceeding $100.00 or more. The City Clerk will provide forms for completion by all persons and Political Action Committees.All Election Financial Disclosures shall be Public Record