Joanne Wilhelm: Do the research to choose the best candidates this election

To The Daily Sun,

The Nov. 3 election may be the most important of my lifetime. It’s time for a change in Concord — and for voters to do their homework rather than automatically voting Democrat or Republican.

The Free State Project, launched in 2001 to bring libertarians to New Hampshire, heavily influences state politics today. Too many Republican legislators follow a majority leader whose philosophy goes beyond limited government toward eliminating the government’s role in our lives.

Republicans have controlled Concord for much of the past decade. During that time, Education Freedom Accounts have diverted public tax dollars to private and home-schooling expenses, without income limits for participating families. Meanwhile, eliminating the Interest and Dividends Tax and cutting business taxes have reduced state revenue. As the state struggles to balance its budget, costs shift to towns and local property taxpayers.

The pendulum has swung far enough. NH needs legislators willing to work across party lines on issues that matter: strong public schools, affordable housing, access to healthcare, and the rising costs of gas and groceries.

Before voting, examine a legislator's records and those of the candidates seeking to replace them. How do they vote on issues affecting a voter's family? What legislation have they introduced? The Granite Docket is one resource for researching legislative records.

Be cautious about political labels. An A+ rating from Liberty Alliance reflects that organization’s priorities — not necessarily a legislator’s effectiveness or commitment to all NH residents. Look beyond the grade and examine the actual votes behind it.

Party labels don’t tell the whole story. Research the candidates, examine their records, and decide who will best serve all New Hampshire residents and the common good.

Join me in working for change. I’ve done my research and will be voting blue.

Joanne Wilhelm

Moultonborough