What are the most significant ways that New Hampshire has changed over the past 25 years? Our growth in population has given us greater ethnic diversity. ( I like to count how many languages I hear when I’m shopping at the mall.) It’s great that people have come here for jobs and opportunity, but that has led to increased traffic and proliferation of McMansions and chain stores. At the same time, there has been a shift to greater emphasis on environmental issues. The air and water are cleaner than they were 25 years ago, and there is increased attention to preserving open space.
What in politics and government has changed the most, especially in New Hampshire, over the past quarter century? Clearly the Democratic sweep in the 2006 elections was the most dramatic change in NH politics. I have seen a gradual change, however, in attitudes toward domestic violence, smoking, DWI, drug treatment, and gay rights.
What Granite Stater(s) would you say inspired you? In what way? Vesta Roy was my mentor and role model. She held local, county, and state office before becoming acting governor in 1982. She carried herself with grace and dignity but didn’t shy away from tackling the tough issues. Vesta was the one who first encouraged me to run for office. I also learned a lot about the legislative process from Caroline Gross, and about how to run a hearing from Bill Kidder.
What would you consider your favorite spot in New Hampshire and why? I love to sit at my kitchen table over my morning coffee with the sunlight streaming in, the birds chirping, and the flowering trees in bloom while I read the paper with classical music playing in the background. After years of rushing out the door every morning, this is a real luxury. Away from home, there’s a bend in the road on I-93 North in Bow where a vista opens up and reveals the mountains in the distance. It’s a wonderful sight in every season.
What would you like to see accomplished in New Hampshire over the next 25 years? I’d like to see us restore or preserve of those qualities that distinguish us from other states. More emphasis on individual responsibility will allow us to keep our unique tax status. A favorable business climate and appealing natural environment will attract entrepreneurs and encourage our young people to stay here to live, work, and raise the next generation of Granite Staters.
