To The Daily Sun,
Republican state Rep. Troy Merner moved from Lancaster to Carroll in August 2022, becoming ineligible to vote from Lancaster in town or state elections, and ineligible to run for office from Lancaster. Under the New Hampshire Constitution, House members must live in the district they represent; not a difficult concept to grasp. Nevertheless, Merner engaged in a lengthy unethical campaign of deception, voting in elections from his old district, running for office from his old district, and voting on bills in Concord from his false address.
Merner’s conduct speaks for itself, and perhaps he will receive a slap on the wrist. But why did it take from February until September for the attorney general to formally notify the House speaker of the fraud? Apparently, many GOP members of the House knew during that period, but failed to notify Democratic leadership and allowed Merner to continue casting crucial votes.
Not so long ago another GOP state representative used deceit to get elected. When Belknap County Rep. Michael Sylvia lied under oath about his residency, the matter was referred to the Attorney General's Office for prosecution for perjury, but Attorney General Gordon MacDonald swept it under the rug. His reward? Appointment as chief justice of the NH Supreme Court.
Current Republican leadership also appears to protect their own no matter what. Attorney General John Formella is stonewalling requests for information under the guise of "investigation,” and House GOPs refuse to revisit bills where Merner’s vote was crucial.
Our state deserves better.
Hunter Taylor
Alton
(1) comment
Sylvia's issue didn't get swept under the rug, he was a Belmont resident for his entire term. I hope he sues you over saying this in the paper.
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