CONCORD, N.H. (CBS/AP) – Republican Ovide Lamontagne has conceded in the New Hampshire governor’s race and is wishing Democratic winner Maggie Hassan well.

He says he expected personal attacks but was surprised at the influence of outside third parties “demonizing” him.

“It’s not going to be our night,” Lamontagne said.

Hassan, a former state Senate majority leader, will keep New Hampshire governor’s seat in Democratic control. She had argued Lamontagne was too extreme for New Hampshire.

Hassan succeeds John Lynch, who has been governor since 2005. He has served four two-year terms and is retiring.

Hassan’s campaign stressed the need to repair damage done by the Republican Legislature in its last budget, particularly by restoring deep cuts to public colleges and the state’s hospitals.

Lamontagne said tonight his biggest regret is that New Hampshire will lose out on a wonderful first lady in his wife Bettie.

WBZ-TV’s Michael Rosenfield contributed to this report.