CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Most of the Republican candidates hoping to challenge the Democratic incumbent in New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District say they would rise above partisan bickering if they make it to Washington, but one says arguing is part of the job.

“It’s an adversarial process, just like in court,” attorney and Manchester Alderman Joseph Kelly Levasseur said Thursday. “There’d be a lot less fighting if the Democrats just listened to our common sense and did what the Republicans asked.”

Levasseur and four others competing in Tuesday’s GOP primary faced each other in a debate at New England College, where a panelist cited a poll in which nearly 90% of Americans said they believe Republicans and Democrats are more interested in fighting each other than solving problems. Aside from Levasseur, they said they would work to regain voters’ trust by staying positive and cooperating with colleagues.

Common understanding comes through trust and open communication, said Hollie Noveletsky, a business owner, nurse and former U.S. Army reservist.

“It’s also important to find like-minded people in Congress, not the ones that are standing in front of the camera asking for five minutes of fame, but the ones who are rolling up their sleeves every day and doing the hard work,” she said.

Business executive and Army veteran Chris Bright agreed, saying uniting the country is a top priority. Career politicians have eroded the public’s trust, he said.

“I was taught at West Point that you wear your rank not for personal gain but to advance mission of people,” he said. “So it’s about putting the needs of the country first. In the Arrmy, we call that selfless service.”

Congress gets nothing done because it’s full of extremists, said businessman Walter McFarlane.

“We need some moderates to help bridge the aisle,” he said. “It doesn’t mean we abandon the ideals we hold dear, but it does mean that we reach across the aisle.”

Former executive councilor and state Sen. Russell Prescott said he has attracted broad support, including from independent voters and Libertarians, in part due to his positive attitude.

“Two years ago in a debate, I said, ‘If we could just along, we could accomplish a lot,’” he said, decrying the negative infighting he recalled from his campaign for the same seat two years ago.

Prescott was one of 10 candidates who sought the GOP nomination in 2002. The winner was Karoline Leavitt, who lost to Democrat Chris Pappas, who has held the seat since 2018 and faces no significant challenge in his upcoming primary.

Max Abramson and Andy Martin also will be on the Republican ballot.

(Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.)

The New Hampshire Insurance Department (NHID) reports that it has approved a workers’ compensation rate proposal that will reduce voluntary loss costs by 5.6% on average.

The new lower rates will apply to voluntary market policies effective on or after January 1, 2025.

The market has now experienced loss cost decreases for 13 consecutive years, with a cumulative reduction exceeding 65% over this period. The state’s voluntary loss costs went down 14% on average in 2024, down 7% in 2023, and for 2022, they were down 8%.

Loss costs are the portion of an employer’s insurance premium dedicated to covering claims costs. Insurers are required to use the new loss costs and are then permitted to adjust it for their own company expenses.

The rate proposal for 2025 was filed on July 31 by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI), the advisory agent that prepares workers’ compensation rate filings for New Hampshire and many other states.

The filing is based on premium and loss experience as of year-end 2023 from policy years 2020, 2021, and 2022 and shows improved experienced relative to the data underlying the filing effective January 1, 2024. According to NCCI, all three years showed similarly favorable experience. The state’s lost-time claim frequency has continued to decline. Indemnity and medical severity both increased slightly after steep declines during the COVID-19 pandemic but despite the slight increase in severity, loss ratios continue to decrease.

“We’re seeing real benefits for businesses and workers alike as the cost of workers’ compensation continues to drop,” said New Hampshire Insurance Commissioner DJ Bettencourt. “The workers’ compensation market in New Hampshire remains robust, offering business owners a wide array of options when selecting coverage.”

The workers’ compensation market across the country remains healthy, according to NCCI. The industry’s calendar year 2023 combined ratio was 86%, a sign of underwriting profitability, and net written premium increased by 1%.

NCCI data shows that injured worker claims frequency has continued to decline on a countrywide basis, while claim severity changes were moderate for 2023.

NCCI credits a continued focus on worker safety and technological advancements as contributing to fewer workplace injuries over time.

While payroll increased by 6% between 2022 and 2023, workers’ compensation system costs have increased at a slower pace than wages during the same period. Also, while economic inflation has been elevated over the past few years, this has not generally translated to higher workers’ compensation medical and indemnity benefit costs, according to NCCI.

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New Hampshire

Imagine a place where magic is woven into the fabric of everyday life, where wonder waits around every corner—welcome to New Hampshire. One of the gems of New England, the picturesque state is home to a collection of quirky small towns that embody the essence of charming character. Diverse landscapes, from the White Mountains to Lake Winnipesaukee, set the stage for the natural essence that drives creative expression, which can be found in communities like Hanover and Peterborough. Eight whimsical New Hampshire towns wait to be discovered, with storybook settings, covered bridges, and creativity filling the air with colorful works.

Hanover

Hanover, a small New Hampshire city along the Connecticut River, is world-renowned for its reputation as a destination driven by academic pursuit and outdoor adventure. Hanover is home to Ivy-League Dartmouth College, infusing the town with a lively arts scene, diverse dining options, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere. The Appalachian Trail crosses through Hanover, linking several outdoor trails and nature preserves, such as the Mink Brook Nature Preserve, providing a verdant escape with trails winding through forests and meadows, inviting exploration and wildlife spotting. In the heart of Hanover lies the historic Dartmouth Green, a hub of scholarly pursuits and community gatherings, surrounded by venerable architecture containing eras of intellectual exploration within its walls. The changing seasons reveal new iterations of a place that expresses a captivating spirit, making Hanover a delightful destination to discover any time of year.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth’s seaside allure is a masterful orchestration of past and present, where the saltwater rustle of the Piscataqua River meets the ephemeral hum of eclectic energy. The district’s waterfront throbs with the ebb and tide of life as sailboats and fishing vessels bob alongside trendy eateries and curious shops. In Prescott Park, gardens burst with color as newcomers meander lazily through walking paths, punctuated by seasonal arts festivals that celebrate the village’s innovative verve. At Strawbery Banke Museum, the past springs to life through meticulously restored homes and costumed roleplayers, transporting visitors to an era of simplicity and grace dating back 350 years. Portsmouth’s eccentric personality shines bright as the sea meets the shore, a captivating fusion of maritime heritage and bohemian flair.

Littleton

Littleton’s air is sweet with the scent of sugar and wondrous possibilities. The downtown area is a lively scene of independent shops and local eateries, where Chutters’ legendary candy store stands as a beacon of pure delight, its endless counter a rainbow-hued wonderland, and the local pubs are punctuated with the sounds of the rushing waters of the Ammonoosuc River. Just beyond, the Moore Reservoir’s sparkling waters encourage contemplative exploration, its scenic shores and islands a haven for boaters, fishermen, and dreamers. In the heart of Littleton, the Pollyanna Statue stands as a testament to Littleton’s tie to Eleanor H. Porter’s beloved literary heroine, embodying the community’s irrepressible optimism and can-do spirit. With the town’s motto, “Be Glad,” visitors will definitely be glad they have chosen to visit the wondrous place of Littleton, New Hampshire.

Jackson

The heart of the White Mountains cradles the resort hub of Jackson, a magical place that seems plucked from the pages of a storybook. The iconic Honeymoon Bridge, also known as the Jackson Covered Bridge, stands proudly over the town, a beloved landmark built in 1876. Jackson includes many fun activities for people of all ages, including numerous celebrations and events throughout the year, the Living Shores Aquarium, Story Land theme park, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. In addition to wintertime fun with skiing and snowboarding, Jackson Falls is a beautiful sight in the spring and summer months, cascading into view a mesmerizing series of waterfalls that invite calm strolls and sun-dappled picnics. As the mountains rise majestically in the distance, Jackson’s village center beckons visitors with rustic elegance and various dining options. A place where fantasy and reality blur, Jackson is truly a place where the boundaries of the imagination are stretched.

Wolfeboro

The joys of lakeside living spring to life in Wolfeboro, America’s oldest summer resort town. Softly lapping waves and sun-kissed docks entice visitors to unwind on Lake Winnipesaukee’s shores while boutique shopping and waterfront dining temptations await eager visitors. Cate Park’s lush grounds and bandshell concerts add to Wolfeboro’s carefree rhythm, as does the Wright Museum of World War II, offering unique historical perspectives into American experiences during the war. Other museums in this relaxing town include the New Hampshire Boat Museum and the Libby Museum of Natural History, the oldest natural history museum in New Hampshire. On top of its many cultural attractions, Wolfeboro offers an abundance of relaxing outdoor activities, which include boating, skiing, fishing, and hiking, along with the many trails scattered throughout the lakeside. Wolfeboro has an offbeat magnetism revealed through its rich culture and natural beauty, making it an idyllic retreat that leaves the heart and soul full of joy.

Peterborough

Creativity reigns supreme in Peterborough, as this center of art and culture pulsates with inspiration. Galleries and theaters burst with innovative expression, while the residents’ eclectic vibe fosters a thriving local scene. Miller State Park’s ancient forests and the majestic summit of Pack Monadnock call upon explorers to hike and discover panoramic vistas. Meanwhile, the Mariposa Museum takes spectators on a global journey, sharing folk art, culture, and artifacts that reflect Peterborough’s worldly attraction. With such a spiritual richness, Peterborough has no shortage of majestic scenery, having many nature trails and well-maintained parks. This convergence of nature and culture gives Peterborough a wondrous allure that captivates the imagination of creatives and anyone seeking inspiration in a vibrant artistic community.

Exeter

Exeter exudes a colonial influence amidst modern vitality. With antique architecture creating the backdrop for a vibrant downtown filled with many shops and cafes, Exeter invites exploration to visitors from around the world. The Exeter River winds its way through the city, a shimmering ribbon of water where the sight of both kayaks and strollers are as common in the town as the many pubs and eateries that dot the streets. At the American Independence Museum, Exeter’s revolutionary spirit is palpable, with treasures like a Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence and other artifacts on display. With each step, the town’s colorful past and lively present intersect, creating a captivating display of experience that draws visitors into its allure.

Keene

A festive spirit lingers throughout Keene as the city’s legendary Pumpkin Festival conjures magic each autumn season. But Keene’s allure extends beyond this beloved bash, with a lively downtown that pulses with eclectic shops, restaurants, and local camaraderie. Along the Ashuelot River, a scenic park that invites outdoor enthusiasts to wander and play, while Keene State College’s historic campus injects a dose of intellectual curiosity and communal vitality into the mix. As the neighborhood’s warm, welcoming energy envelops you, it’s clear that Keene is a place where connection and joy are always in season, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic New England appeal and a healthy dose of whimsy.

Whimsical Towns Await Discovery

New Hampshire’s quirky towns are a delight to discover, full of charm and character. The state’s serene natural landscape sets a stage for exploration, with majestic mountains giving way to peaceful lakes and winding rivers. In this beautiful setting, places like Keene and Portsmouth have the spirit to thrive, each bursting with a distinct personality. This New England state’s raw majesty, artistic community, and quaint warmth come together to create a captivating atmosphere that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor to these spellbinding destinations.