All Portsmouth elected officials up for re-election this year secured another term. Stephanie Morales, the Commonwealth’s Attorney, won a third full term, defeating two challengers with nearly 55% of the vote, unofficial results showed.
“Morales, who is the first woman elected to the position, secured almost 55% of the vote.”
Local attorney Nathan Chapman received 24%, while former state delegate and Portsmouth City Councilman Steve Heretick obtained about 21% of the vote.
Michael Moore, the incumbent sheriff, won a third term with a large majority. He earned about 68% of the vote, defeating challenger James Cullen, who received nearly 32%. Cullen ran as an independent and has a background as a police officer and U.S. Coast Guard commander.
“Moore, a Democrat first elected in 2017, previously served as a community college instructor and supervisor with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.”
Paige Cherry, running unopposed, secured another term as city treasurer. She has managed Portsmouth’s public funds since 2017, following her service as a City Council member. The treasurer’s office handles all aspects of the city’s funds, including receipts, deposits, investments, reconciliation, and disbursements.
Portsmouth voters reaffirmed their trust in current officials, with Stephanie Morales securing a strong victory as Commonwealth’s Attorney and other incumbents winning decisively.