Mike Bordes, Republican (incumbent)

Experience: NH House of Representatives (2020-present); vice chair, Brigid's House of Hope

Position on issues

Broad-based sales tax: "Implementing a sales tax would fundamentally change the identity of New Hampshire as a low-tax state. The absence of a sales tax has been a key feature of the state's economic and political landscape for decades. Residents have come to appreciate the lack of a sales tax and the relative simplicity of the state's tax system. Introducing a sales tax would not only increase the burden on residents but also send a message that New Hampshire is willing to abandon its principles for short-term financial gain."

Broad-based income tax: "New Hampshire's decision not to add an income tax on earned income has proven to be a wise choice that aligns with its values of individual freedom and limited government intervention. This unique tax policy has helped to attract individuals and businesses to the state, stimulate economic growth, and promote competitiveness in the region. As a result, New Hampshire continues to thrive as a destination of choice for those seeking financial freedom and opportunity."

Business tax decrease: "Lower business taxes would also benefit consumers in New Hampshire by driving down prices and increasing competition. When businesses are able to operate more efficiently due to lower taxes, they are able to offer lower prices to consumers. This would make goods and services more affordable for residents of New Hampshire, improving their quality of life and increasing their purchasing power."

Capital gains tax: "Adding a tax on capital gains in New Hampshire would be a shortsighted and detrimental decision. The tax would deter investment, hinder economic growth, and create unnecessary administrative burdens. Rather than implementing new taxes, the state should focus on maintaining its competitive tax advantage and fostering a business-friendly environment to attract investment and stimulate economic growth."

Minimum wage increase: "Raising the minimum wage could also have unintended consequences for workers in New Hampshire. While the intention behind raising the minimum wage is to help low-wage workers earn a higher income, it could actually result in reduced job opportunities for these workers. Employers may be forced to cut back on hiring or reduce the number of hours worked by their employees in order to offset the increased labor costs, leaving some workers worse off than before."

Encourage local zoning changes for housing development: "New Hampshire, as with many states across the country, is facing a housing crisis. The demand for housing in the state far outweighs the supply, leading to skyrocketing home prices and rents that are out of reach for many residents. One way to address this crisis is by encouraging municipalities to remove zoning barriers to housing development. Zoning regulations that restrict the types of housing that can be built in certain areas, such as single-family homes only in residential neighborhoods, can severely limit the amount of housing that is available. These regulations often result in a lack of affordable housing options, as well as a lack of housing diversity to meet the needs of different demographics. By removing these barriers and allowing for increased housing development, municipalities can help alleviate the housing shortage in New Hampshire. This can be achieved by implementing policies that allow for higher density housing, mixed-use developments, and other forms of housing that are currently prohibited by zoning regulations."

Increase funding for child care providers: Undecided

Majority of public school funding through local property taxes: Undecided

"Education Freedom Account" program: "While I support the concept of allowing parents to have a say in their child's education, I also believe that there should be some level of accountability in place to ensure that students are receiving a proper education. This is especially important in the case of home-schooled children, as there is less oversight compared to traditional public schools. One way to ensure that home-schooled children are receiving a quality education is by implementing a yearly proctored exam. This exam would serve as a way to assess the student's academic progress and ensure that they are meeting the necessary educational standards. By requiring home-schooled students to take this exam, we can help guarantee that they are receiving a well-rounded education that prepares them for future success."

Marijuana legalization with home-growing, no sales: "One of the major issues that arises from legalizing marijuana is the fact that it is still classified as a schedule 1 drug at the federal level. This means that anyone who uses marijuana, even in states where it is legal, is technically in violation of federal law. This becomes a major concern for gun owners in New Hampshire, as federal law prohibits anyone who is an 'unlawful user' of any controlled substance from possessing firearms. If New Hampshire were to legalize marijuana for recreational use, many gun owners who currently possess firearms legally could suddenly find themselves in violation of federal law and at risk of becoming felons overnight. This is a serious issue that cannot be ignored, as it could have devastating consequences for law-abiding citizens who simply enjoy using marijuana recreationally."

Marijuana legalization with private sales: "One of the major issues that arises from legalizing marijuana is the fact that it is still classified as a schedule 1 drug at the federal level. This means that anyone who uses marijuana, even in states where it is legal, is technically in violation of federal law. This becomes a major concern for gun owners in New Hampshire, as federal law prohibits anyone who is an 'unlawful user' of any controlled substance from possessing firearms. If New Hampshire were to legalize marijuana for recreational use, many gun owners who currently possess firearms legally could suddenly find themselves in violation of federal law and at risk of becoming felons overnight. This is a serious issue that cannot be ignored, as it could have devastating consequences for law-abiding citizens who simply enjoy using marijuana recreationally."

Marijuana legalization with state-run stores: "One of the major issues that arises from legalizing marijuana is the fact that it is still classified as a schedule 1 drug at the federal level. This means that anyone who uses marijuana, even in states where it is legal, is technically in violation of federal law. This becomes a major concern for gun owners in New Hampshire, as federal law prohibits anyone who is an 'unlawful user' of any controlled substance from possessing firearms. If New Hampshire were to legalize marijuana for recreational use, many gun owners who currently possess firearms legally could suddenly find themselves in violation of federal law and at risk of becoming felons overnight. This is a serious issue that cannot be ignored, as it could have devastating consequences for law-abiding citizens who simply enjoy using marijuana recreationally."

Repeal ban on abortion after 24 weeks: "The state does not impose restrictions or barriers to accessing abortion services prior to 24 weeks, allowing women to seek out the care they need without fear of judgement or interference from the government. It is important to note that there are exceptions for abortions after 24 weeks in cases where the life of the mother is at risk. In these situations, it is crucial that women have access to the care they need in order to protect their health and well-being. By allowing these exceptions, the state demonstrates a commitment to upholding the rights and safety of women in all circumstances."

Guarantee right to abortion before 24 weeks: "The state does not impose restrictions or barriers to accessing abortion services prior to 24 weeks, allowing women to seek out the care they need without fear of judgement or interference from the government. It is important to note that there are exceptions for abortions after 24 weeks in cases where the life of the mother is at risk. In these situations, it is crucial that women have access to the care they need in order to protect their health and well-being. By allowing these exceptions, the state demonstrates a commitment to upholding the rights and safety of women in all circumstances."

Ban abortion during 2nd trimester: "The state does not impose restrictions or barriers to accessing abortion services prior to 24 weeks, allowing women to seek out the care they need without fear of judgement or interference from the government. It is important to note that there are exceptions for abortions after 24 weeks in cases where the life of the mother is at risk. In these situations, it is crucial that women have access to the care they need in order to protect their health and well-being. By allowing these exceptions, the state demonstrates a commitment to upholding the rights and safety of women in all circumstances."

Ban abortion during 1st trimester: "The state does not impose restrictions or barriers to accessing abortion services prior to 24 weeks, allowing women to seek out the care they need without fear of judgement or interference from the government. It is important to note that there are exceptions for abortions after 24 weeks in cases where the life of the mother is at risk. In these situations, it is crucial that women have access to the care they need in order to protect their health and well-being. By allowing these exceptions, the state demonstrates a commitment to upholding the rights and safety of women in all circumstances."

Protection for interstate travel related to gender, abortion: "While it is important to recognize and respect the healthcare decisions of all individuals, it is also important for New Hampshire to prioritize the needs of its own residents. Adding legal protections specifically for non-residents who come to the state for abortion or gender transition services could potentially compromise individual rights, strain healthcare resources, and lead to unintended consequences. It is important for New Hampshire to carefully consider the implications of adding legal protections for residents of other states before making any decisions on this matter."

Stricter gun laws: "The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution clearly states that the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. This fundamental right is essential to the protection of our freedom and liberty. Passing stricter gun control laws in New Hampshire would only serve to infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens and make it more difficult for them to protect themselves and their families. New Hampshire should never pass stricter gun control laws. These laws would only serve to infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens, while doing little to reduce gun violence. It is essential to protect the Second Amendment rights of individuals and ensure that they have the ability to defend themselves and their families. Passing stricter gun control laws is not the answer to reducing gun violence, and we must instead focus on addressing the root causes of violence in our society."

Require local immigration enforcement: "New Hampshire should require local law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement in order to ensure the safety and security of all residents in the state. Cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration enforcement is crucial for maintaining law and order within our communities. When local police agencies refuse to cooperate with federal immigration officials, they are effectively creating safe havens for individuals who have violated immigration laws. This not only undermines the rule of law but also hinders efforts to protect our communities from individuals who may pose a threat to public safety."

Climate change action: Undecided

Expand net metering opportunities: Undecided

Conditional, affidavit ballots for new voters: "New Hampshire's commitment to safe and fair elections is a testament to the values of our state. By protecting the integrity of the voting process, making voting accessible to all citizens, and ensuring that everyone has the right to vote, New Hampshire upholds the principles of democracy and ensures that every voice is heard."