Leadership requires accountability and research
Before casting your vote, take a hard look at candidate track records and campaign disclosures. True leadership isn’t about pushing a failed agenda; it is about serving the public with transparency and fiscal responsibility.
When reviewing local candidates, ask the critical questions:
1. Follow the money: Where is their campaign funding coming from, and who are they beholden to if elected? Why would a state representative role—paying $100 annually—require tens of thousands of dollars in campaign spending compared to opponents who raise a fraction of that amount? https://cfs.sos.nh.gov/public/cf/contribution.
2. Examine the track record: Look at past performance in local government. In Plainfield, delaying basic transparency — such as waiting nine months to approve broadcasting school board meetings on YouTube — directly undermines public access.
3. Evaluate fiscal responsibility: Has high municipal spending produced results? Despite paying over 60% of a $9 million school budget to staff while maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios, state performance metrics continue to reflect under-performance without accountability. Over the past decade, unsustainable school budgets have continued to swell as a direct result of decisions made by fiscally irresponsible board members.
Holding public office requires a proven commitment to open governance and sound management. Ignoring past missteps and doubling down on ineffective decisions isn’t leadership — it’s steering our community in the wrong direction. Do the research, review the track record, and vote for accountability.
While many default to voting strictly along party lines, it is worth taking a step back to re-evaluate that habit. Leaving a blank ballot is always an option if neither candidate earns your support — the key is doing the research to remain fully informed.