New Hampshire State Rep. Harry Bean Dies

The Gilmanton Republican was known as an advocate for veterans and a champion arm wrestler.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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New Hampshire state Rep. Harry Bean, a Gilmanton Republican, has died, his colleagues announced in messages of sympathy and mourning over the weekend. Bean, 71, was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and represented Gilmanton and Laconia Ward 2.

Why it matters

Rep. Bean's passing leaves a vacancy in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, which could impact the balance of power in the state legislature. As a Republican, his seat will likely be a target for both parties in the next election.

The details

In the most recent budget cycle, Rep. Bean served on a budget subcommittee. His colleagues described him as a "stalwart of Belknap County" and a "dear friend" who helped "reshape Belknap County" through his leadership.

  • Rep. Bean was first elected to the New Hampshire House of Representatives in 2018.
  • Rep. Bean passed away over the weekend of February 16, 2026.

The players

Harry Bean

A 71-year-old Republican state representative from Gilmanton, New Hampshire who served in the state legislature since 2018.

Kelly Ayotte

The Governor of New Hampshire who expressed her gratitude for Rep. Bean's work in the Legislature.

Laura Telerski

The House Deputy Democratic Leader who served with Rep. Bean on the House Finance Committee.

Jason Osborne

The House Majority Leader who called Rep. Bean a "stalwart of Belknap County".

Steven Bogert

A Republican state representative from Laconia who called Rep. Bean a "dear friend" and credited him with helping "reshape Belknap County".

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What they’re saying

“Our caucus mourns the loss of our beloved member, Rep. Harry Bean. Rep. Bean faithfully served the people of NH. He was an advocate for veterans, balanced budgets, and a champion arm wrestler. We will miss him dearly and thank him and his family for his service to our state.”

— NH House Republicans (X)

“Rep. Harry Bean was a devoted public servant, husband, father, and grandfather, and I'm saddened to hear of his passing today. Harry was always a steadfast advocate for Belknap County and dedicated to making our entire state an even better place to live. Joe and I are praying for Priscilla and the entire Bean family. He will be dearly missed.”

— Kelly Ayotte, Governor of New Hampshire (Statement)

“Hearing of the passing of Rep. Harry Bean of Gilford who served with me on the House Finance Committee. Extending my sincere condolences to his family and friends tonight.”

— Laura Telerski, House Deputy Democratic Leader (X)

“Rep. Harry Bean was a stalwart of Belknap County and I will always remember attending the Bean family barbecues.”

— Jason Osborne, House Majority Leader (X)

“Harry was a dear friend and his leadership has driven our county to be better and better.”

— Steven Bogert, State Representative from Laconia (X)

What’s next

The New Hampshire House of Representatives will need to hold a special election to fill Rep. Bean's vacant seat.

The takeaway

Rep. Harry Bean's passing is a loss for the New Hampshire Republican Party, as he was a well-respected and influential member of the state legislature. His colleagues' tributes highlight his dedication to public service and his positive impact on his community.