Explore

Debate Over Property Taxes Highlights Political Tensions in New Hampshire

Debate Over Property Taxes Highlights Political Tensions in New Hampshire

A letter to the editor in the Concord Monitor addresses the ongoing debate over property taxes in New Hampshire, criticizing Senator Dan Innis for blaming Democrats for rising taxes. The author, Bebe Casey, argues that local budget decisions are made by nonpartisan officials, not political parties. Casey highlights historical changes in state funding, noting that state aid to towns was suspended in 2010 and pension cost-sharing was eliminated by 2013, decisions made by a Republican-controlled government. The letter suggests that these actions have shifted financial burdens onto local governments, contributing to higher property taxes. The author calls for restoring state aid to alleviate the financial pressure on local communities.

Cinde Warmington Opposes Expansion of Fossil Fuel Energy in New Hampshire

Cinde Warmington Opposes Expansion of Fossil Fuel Energy in New Hampshire

Cinde Warmington, a Democratic candidate for governor, has publicly stated her opposition to increasing fossil fuel energy supply in New Hampshire. In her campaign, she challenges incumbent Governor Kelly Ayotte and outlines her energy policy, which includes legal strategies to contest the Trump administration's policies without the support of the New Hampshire Attorney General. Warmington's stance is part of her broader campaign platform, which also addresses her past lobbying activities and her approach to maintaining New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation primary status.

New Hampshire Celebrates Ranking as Safest State in the Nation

New Hampshire Celebrates Ranking as Safest State in the Nation

On July 28, 2026, New Hampshire was recognized as the safest state in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report's 2026 'Best State' rankings. Governor Kelly Ayotte and law enforcement leaders celebrated this achievement, attributing it to the dedicated efforts of first responders and recent policy measures. These measures include reforms to the bail system, enhanced protections for crime victims, and restored retirement benefits for first responders. The state also ranks highly for economic opportunity, further contributing to its overall quality of life.

Stefany Shaheen Gains Endorsement from New Hampshire's Largest Teachers Union

Stefany Shaheen Gains Endorsement from New Hampshire's Largest Teachers Union

Stefany Shaheen, a candidate in the Democratic primary for New Hampshire's 1st Congressional District, has received an endorsement from NEA-New Hampshire, the state's largest teachers union. The endorsement is a significant boost for Shaheen's campaign, as she competes in a multi-candidate primary. NEA-New Hampshire President Megan Tuttle expressed confidence in Shaheen's ability to advocate for public school educators and students. Shaheen, who also has the support of the American Federation of Teachers, emphasized her commitment to fighting for educators and improving public education.

Criticism of Republican Policies on Property Taxes in New Hampshire

Criticism of Republican Policies on Property Taxes in New Hampshire

A letter to the editor criticizes Republican policies in New Hampshire for contributing to high property taxes. The letter argues that Republicans have shifted government costs onto local communities, resulting in increased property taxes. It highlights the use of Education Freedom Accounts, which divert state educational funds to private activities, as a key factor in the rising tax burden. The letter calls for voters to hold Republicans accountable and suggests that voting them out could lead to lower property taxes. The critique reflects broader dissatisfaction with the state's fiscal policies and their impact on local taxpayers.

New Hampshire's Historical Role as a Regional Outlier Explored

New Hampshire's Historical Role as a Regional Outlier Explored

An article explores New Hampshire's historical role as a regional outlier, highlighting its unique political and social developments. The state has a history of setting precedents, such as being the first to lower Britain's flag in 1774 and establishing the first public library in 1883. However, it has also lagged in areas like abolition and civil rights. The article discusses New Hampshire's reluctance to outlaw slavery and its late recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Despite these challenges, the state has been a leader in female political representation, with notable achievements in electing women to high office.

Why the 1981 PATCO Strike Still Matters Decades Later

Why the 1981 PATCO Strike Still Matters Decades Later

The 1981 strike by the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO) was a significant confrontation between labor and government in th...

Chris Pappas Highlights Commitment to Social Security Amid Privatization Concerns

Chris Pappas Highlights Commitment to Social Security Amid Privatization Concerns

Congressman Chris Pappas, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate, is emphasizing his commitment to protecting Social Security in New Hampshire. During a recent event in Manchester, Pappas contrasted his record with that of former Senator John Sununu, who previously supported efforts to privatize Social Security. Pappas criticized the Trump administration's actions, which he believes could undermine Social Security, and pledged to oppose any privatization efforts if elected. He highlighted the importance of Social Security for seniors, particularly in New Hampshire, which has a significant aging population. Pappas's campaign is focusing on safeguarding Social Security and Medicaid as key issues.

Congressman Chris Pappas Opposes OPM Rule Threatening Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Workforce

Congressman Chris Pappas Opposes OPM Rule Threatening Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Workforce

Congressman Chris Pappas, alongside other lawmakers from New Hampshire and Maine, is opposing a proposed rule by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Merit Systems Protection Board. The rule, titled 'Promoting Employee Accountability,' is criticized for potentially weakening civil service protections and undermining workers' rights at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The lawmakers argue that the rule could hinder workforce recruitment and retention, which is crucial for maintaining U.S. naval readiness. The shipyard requires over 700 new workers annually to meet demands, and the proposed rule could exacerbate existing challenges in hiring and retaining skilled workers. Pappas has been actively involved in efforts to protect civilian workers at the shipyard, especially in light of previous hiring freezes and job cuts under the Trump administration.

Easterseals Expands Services for Veterans with New Centers in Franklin

Easterseals Expands Services for Veterans with New Centers in Franklin

Easterseals has commenced construction on two new service centers at its Military and Veterans Campus in Franklin, New Hampshire. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by veterans, community members, and U.S. Representatives Maggie Goodlander and Chris Pappas. The new facilities, the Solinksy Equine & Recreation Center and the Solinsky Empowerment Center, will provide therapeutic services using horses and dogs, as well as personal growth opportunities through counseling. These additions aim to enhance the support available to veterans, military members, and their families. The campus already includes affordable housing, a conference center, and veteran service organization hubs. The initiative is part of Easterseals' ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive support to veterans, a promise rooted in historical commitments to care for those who have served.

Senator King and Representative Pingree Oppose Rule Threatening Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Workforce

Senator King and Representative Pingree Oppose Rule Threatening Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Workforce

U.S. Senator Angus King and Representative Chellie Pingree are leading efforts to oppose a proposed rule by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) that could weaken civil service protections for federal employees, including nearly 8,000 civilian workers at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The lawmakers argue that the rule, which aims to promote employee accountability, would undermine the recruitment and retention of skilled workers essential for maintaining the Navy's submarine fleet, thereby threatening national security. The proposed rule would alter longstanding civil service protections by imposing a 30-day limit for performance improvement periods and making termination the default penalty, potentially leading to the loss of skilled workers. The lawmakers, joined by other New Hampshire officials, have expressed their concerns in a letter to OPM Acting Director Charles Ezell and MSPB Chairman Cathy Harris, urging the withdrawal of the rule.

Mount Nittany Medical Center Staff Return to Work After Strike

Mount Nittany Medical Center Staff Return to Work After Strike

Nearly 1,000 employees of Mount Nittany Medical Center in Pennsylvania returned to work after a five-day strike. The strike, organized by SEIU Healthcare PA, was initiated due to failed contract negotiations following the expiration of a previous agreement on June 30. The union is advocating for wage increases to match inflation and improved workplace safety measures. Despite returning to work, the employees have not yet reached a new contract agreement with the hospital. Negotiations are set to resume, with the union expressing a strong commitment to securing better terms for its members.