With the election now upon us, we need to closely consider the so-called “down ballot” races for state government. Although the federal elections and governor’s race seem to get the most attention, it is the state elections that have the most impact on our daily lives. One such election is for executive councilor, a position that is unique to NH. The five executive councilors serve as “guardrails” for the governor, approving contracts over $10,000 (like Planned Parenthood), voting on nominations for commissioners (like education commissioner) and judges, and overseeing infrastructure projects (highways and bridges). The Executive Council has been called “the most important office you never heard of.”

The Democratic candidate for Council District 2 is Karen Liot Hill. District 2 runs along the Connecticut River Valley and extends east to Plymouth, Concord, and Peterborough. Karen has been a city councilor in Lebanon for 20 years, including time as mayor, and is the treasurer of Grafton County. She is well acquainted with overseeing budgets and being careful with taxpayer dollars. She has hired city managers and held them accountable. She has vetted hundreds of city board and committee members. She has advised the current Executive Council on regional priorities. Karen has also been involved in numerous non-governmental public services. She’s also a mom invested in our children’s future. She is uniquely qualified for this uniquely New Hampshire office. On Nov. 5, please join me in voting for Karen Liot Hill for Executive Council.

Linda Mattlage

Concord