As I celebrated Independence Day and our republic’s birth 248 years ago, I was set to thinking about those who were screaming on the media about how this might be our last celebration of democracy in the USA.
In this crucial time in American history, the differences between the Democratic and Republican Parties have big consequences for where our country is headed. It’s not just about what they believe in, but also what their names stand for in our government and national identity.
With all the talk about “protecting democracy,” it’s important to understand what democracy really means. The United States wasn’t organized as a direct democracy, where everyone votes on everything. Instead, it’s a republic where we elect representatives to speak for us. Our Founding Fathers set it up this way to make sure everyone’s voice, no matter how small, could be heard.
Our representative republic is smart because it balances the needs and ideas of all states, no matter how many people live there. This stops big states from bossing around smaller ones, and ensures everyone’s rights are respected. This system has helped us make big strides – like ending slavery, giving women the right to vote, and protecting freedoms like religion and speech.
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But today, some in the Democratic Party want to change our system into more of a direct democracy. That would weaken the core principles that have defined our nation for so long. A direct democracy would move decision-making power to Washington, and ignore smaller states. This approach risks leaving out different views that don’t match the majority. Certainly, had we been a direct democracy, interracial marriage would not have been recognized in New Hampshire until 1967, at the earliest, although marriage records show New Hampshire recognized interracial marriages much earlier.
As Republicans, we believe in keeping our fair and inclusive representative republic. We think every person, no matter their background or beliefs, should have an equal chance to shape our country’s future. We’re against turning America into a pure democracy because it could silence voices that are vital to our country’s success.
When Democrats talk about “protecting democracy,” we need to remember that our strength comes from our representative republic. We should all remind each other that America’s greatness comes from representing everyone fairly, not just letting the majority rule unchecked. We value every voice in our country, no matter how big or small.
Let’s stand together to protect the heart of our republic. We must oppose any changes that threaten the rights and freedoms of every person, no matter where they come from or what they believe. Our strength lies in a system where everyone’s voice matters and is respected, ensuring that no one group gets drowned out by another. Fairness, equality, and making sure everyone has a say, have always been what makes America strong, and it’s up to us to keep these principles strong for our future.
Remember, it’s not a “fight for democracy”, but a fight to save our republic.
CONCORD – While Republican Gov. Kelly Ayotte has said she opposes increasing highway toll rates across the state, the Senate voted Thursday to increase rates for out-of-state license plate holders.
It now goes to the House for consideration.
This would be a $1 increase for those who have out of state plates going through the tolls at Hooksett, Hampton and Bedford for out-of-state plates, a 75 cent hike for those taking Hampton’s Exit 2 and on the Spaulding turnpike at Rochester, and a 50 cent hike for those taking the exit off I-93 to Hooksett.
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An analysis in the bill shows that this would increase toll revenue by $53.3 million in fiscal year 2027 and go up each year to generate $81.4 million a year in 2036.
Senate Bill 627 passed on a voice vote with two Republicans, Senators Regina Birdsell of Hampstead and William Gannon of Sandown opposing.
Senator Mark E. McConkey, R-Freedom, moved to take the bill off the table and offered an amendment. He said the last time there was a systemwide increase to the turnpike toll was 19 years ago.
“I am sure we could all agree the cost of operations…has continued to escalate when revenue is not rising with it,” and he noted that with an enterprise fund, the state can only spend what it takes in.
The state has just completed a 10-year highway plan and there was a $400 million shortfall in projects that could not be paid for under the current income.
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McConkey said the measure would not increase tolls for New Hampshire drivers with a state license plate.
“Why don’t we ask our neighbors,” to pay a toll increase. “We are getting the best of all worlds,” by passing the bill, he said, including “protecting our residents” and having resources for improvements to the turnpike system.
Sen. Gannon, R-Sandown, asked McConkey if there are any studies on impacts near the border on businesses.
If implemented, McConkey said the state will be the 27th lowest in per mile cost still. McConkey said the bill would also increase from seven to 14 days the amount of time for those with NH license plates to pay for a toll adding there are other states that also have different rates for out-of-state users.
The Hampton toll cost would go from $2 to $3, while Hooksett and Bedford would rise from $1 to $2 for out-of-state plates.
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New Hampshire currently has the lowest rate per mile among states with tolls roads. The governor said she does not support a toll increase.
“We are not going to put a burden on drivers for a toll increase,” Ayotte said. “Families are struggling.”
WILTON, N.H. (WHDH) – A woman died in a Wilton, New Hampshire, house fire Wednesday morning, according to the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office.
At 9:08 a.m., Wilton firefighters responded to Burns Hill Road after a caller said their home was filling up with smoke. When they arrived, a single-family home was on fire and they found out two people were still inside on the second floor.
A man and a woman were both taken out of the house by firefighters and taken to Elliott Hospital. The woman was pronounced dead and the man is in serious condition.
Officials have not released the name of the victim at this time.
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At this time, investigators are looking into the cause of the fire and are trying to determine if a power outage in the area played a factor. The fire is not currently considered suspicious.
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