Listener Feedback on Chandler's Gifts

By John Walters on Friday, September 24, 2004.

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Our reports by Dan Gorenstein on House Speaker Gene Chandler and the more than 60 thousand dollars in gifts he's received in recent years generated some listener feedback.

Judith Gilliland (Gill-a-land) of Amherst said she is amazed that New Hampshire law allows officials to receive unlimited cash gifts.

CUT is it possible that New Hampshire allows our representatives to be bought and paid for? I have lived in NH for 20 years and I have always been impressed by the paltry $100 a year that Representatives are paid. It shows, I thought, how truly dedicated they are. Now it turns out that "gifts" make it all worthwhile. (In some countries it\'s called "bribes.") From what I've heard from you so far, we've all been had.

In Fitzwilliam, Carlotta Lilback (Lill-back) Pini has also been thinking about the standard salary of 100 dollars a year for lawmakers. Pini says in her mind, that is the root of the problem.

CUT As I listened to this story, it reinforced a sentiment that I have held for some time. Our State legislators earn $100 per year for their service. That fact ensures that only those who are rich or retired can hold office. It does not surprise me to learn that they take money from private contributors and use it to for mortgage payments and auto repairs. I have investigated this matter and learned that a number of bills have been introduced in the past decade to compensate legislators, as other elected officials such as Tax Collectors and Town Clerks. All have been ruled "inexpedient to legislate." It seems that those in power want to maintain their elite club and the status quo. I would certainly consider running for State Rep if it paid even $19,000(the amount Gene Chandler received last year from his Friends). I am a NH native, a parent, a member of my local Planning Board, and in my opinion, a better representative of the constituency. Unfortunately, I may never be able to afford the chance.

Listeners' thoughts on gifts received by law makers. For the record, there is no evidence that any legislator other than Speaker Chandler has raised substantial amounts for personal use.
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