Poll: NH optimistic about economy

According to a recent New Hampshire poll, 49% think Granite State businesses will enjoy good times financially over the next year.

The latest Business and Industry Association (BIA) Report on Consumer Confidence also found that 23% think New Hampshire businesses will see hard times.  28% of poll respondents expect mixed conditions.

Poll respondents were more optimistic about the state economy than the national economy. Only 35% of those polled think businesses outside New Hampshire will see financial success next year.

"New Hampshire fared better than other states during the Great Recession in terms of job loss, unemployment and economic recovery ... however, this is not reflected in their attitudes about the rest of the country, with more than a third remaining pessimistic about long - term business conditions. This should remind state and national lawmakers of the importance of protecting the climate for job creation and enacting policies that support a strong economy in the future," said BIA President Jim Roche.

The BIA supports cutting New Hampshire's high business taxes as a way to stimulate the economy.  Opponents argue that New Hampshire's high energy costs and the migration of young people out of the state are more of a hindrance to business growth than high taxes.

The poll included 567 randomly selected New Hampshire adults.  38% of poll respondents identified as Republicans, 37% identified as Democrats, and 25% identified as Independents.

CLICK HERE to read the full poll results.