Rep. Lisa M. Freeman: Sun’s election reporting informs voters, strengthen trust

To The Daily Sun,

I would like to recognize Katlyn Proctor and The Laconia Daily Sun for the professional, accurate, and thoughtful interviews conducted with candidates throughout Belknap County.

In today's increasingly divisive political environment, candidates are often confronted with questionnaires framed around predetermined narratives and public forums that seem more interested in creating "gotcha" moments than encouraging meaningful discussion.

That made my experience with Katlyn Proctor particularly refreshing.

Her questions were relevant, her approach was professional, and she provided an opportunity to explain positions without attempting to steer the conversation toward a particular conclusion. She demonstrated that asking meaningful questions and treating candidates fairly are not mutually exclusive.

Candidates should expect difficult questions and be prepared to defend their positions. That is an important part of the democratic process. But there is a meaningful difference between holding candidates accountable and attempting to shape public perception through selective questioning or presentation.

Ultimately, voters deserve the opportunity to evaluate candidates based on their positions, qualifications, and records rather than someone else's interpretation of them.

Katlyn Proctor and The Laconia Daily Sun deserve recognition for demonstrating how responsible local journalism can inform voters, encourage constructive dialogue, and strengthen public trust.

Rep. Lisa M. Freeman

Tilton