After serving three years on the Newmarket Town Council, I came to realize that many local issues require state-level solutions. For instance, Republicans in the Legislature cut taxes for businesses and the wealthy, leading to property tax increases for the working class, with town council and budget committees taking the blame. Ideally, I would address these systemic issues by running for a position in the House or Senate. However, the state’s policy of paying representatives and senators just $100 per year means that working-class individuals like me can’t afford to serve in Concord. This has resulted in a Legislature where 80% of members are wealthy or rich, as they are the only ones who can afford to spend weekday daytime hours in Concord.

This disparity creates a democracy deficit, as the Legislature fails to represent the broader population of New Hampshire. That is why I’m running for governor. It’s the only way I can afford to serve my state and address these community issues. I propose a $20,000 annual salary for state legislators, totaling $8 million, less than what the Republicans allocated for the education freedom voucher fund this year. What, then, is the price of democracy? I argue it’s at least $20,000 per year. Frankly, democracy is priceless to New Hampshire, and I’m committed to advocating for changes that will bring true representation to the legislative branch. New Hampshire must embrace true democracy. You can learn about my campaign on my website.

Jon Kiper

Newmarket