Portsmouth election results: Stephanie Morales wins commonwealth’s attorney race

Portsmouth Election Results: Stephanie Morales Wins Commonwealth’s Attorney Race

All elected officials in Portsmouth who were up for election this year won another term. Stephanie Morales secured a third full term as Portsmouth Commonwealth’s Attorney on Tuesday, easily defeating two opponents.

Commonwealth’s Attorney Race

Morales, the first woman elected to this position, received nearly 55% of the vote according to unofficial results. Local attorney Nathan Chapman earned 24%, and former state delegate and Portsmouth City Councilman Steve Heretick received about 21%.

Sheriff Race

Incumbent Michael Moore won a third term as Portsmouth sheriff with roughly two-thirds of the vote. He secured about 68%, while challenger James Cullen received close to 32%. Cullen, an independent, previously served as a police officer and U.S. Coast Guard commander.

"Moore, a Democrat, was first elected in 2017. He previously worked as a community college instructor and a supervisor for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives."

Treasurer Race

Paige Cherry, a Democrat running unopposed, won another term as treasurer. She has held the position since 2017 and was formerly a City Council member. The treasurer oversees all activities related to public funds, including receipt, deposit, investment, reconciliation, and disbursement.

"Cherry will continue as the custodian for public funds in the city of Portsmouth."

Stephanie Morales’ victory highlights her continued leadership in the commonwealth’s attorney office, while key city officials maintain their roles in Portsmouth governance.

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Daily Press — 2025-11-05