NHPR's In Our Backyard project is exploring the state of local democracy and dialogue across New Hampshire, in town meeting season and beyond.
We're looking at how rising polarization, misinformation and disinformation is shaping debates on all kinds of local issues. But we're also trying to share stories about how people across the state are trying to build connections and common ground with their neighbors in the current political moment.
Your voice is an essential part of this reporting. If you'd like to share your thoughts about local democracy or civic engagement in New Hampshire, please email us at voices@nhpr.org, or leave us a voicemail at 603-513-7790. Click here to learn more about how to get involved.
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After more than a decade as a school librarian, Jessica Gilcreast faced a new challenge last year: someone wanted to remove a book from her district’s library.
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Campaigning against school COVID measures, diversity and inclusion efforts, and academic performance, many conservative candidates fell short of winning seats on local school boards.
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The House Election Law Committee unanimously voted against a bill that would have required all future elections in New Hampshire to be hand counted. Voters across the state also rejected similar mandates in town elections this week.
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Voters aren’t shy about approaching Derry moderator Tina Guilford in public, or on social media, with concerns. She tries to respond with transparency and trust-building.
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As public school policies occupy the political spotlight, some of New Hampshire's school board elections are getting more attention and funding than usual.
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The activists behind the campaign to hand count all ballots contend, without proof, that the machines can be hacked or rigged — mirroring a broader movement to undermine the voting process in the wake of the 2020 election.
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How connected do you feel to the decision makers, like the select board or town council, in your community? Have you noticed local issues becoming more polarized, or more influenced by national politics, in your community? We'd love to hear your thoughts.
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Peter Basiliere has been Milford’s moderator for the last 14 years. In that role, it’s his job to make sure local elections run smoothly — not always an easy task, especially during the pandemic.
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The move came on the same day a New Hampshire legislative committee unanimously opposed a bill to give county lawmakers direct say over the mountain resort.
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While the lawmakers leading the charge to overhaul Gunstock’s operations allege financial mismanagement and a lack of transparency, locals aren’t exactly clamoring for change. On the contrary, some community members say the delegation is overstepping its role.