Voters should come before donors
Karishma Manzur is focusing on an issue many New Hampshire voters already recognize: the growing influence of donors in politics.
Most discussions about money in politics focus on corruption or bad actors. What Manzur is pointing to is more systemic. Running for federal office now requires constant fundraising. Candidates spend hours daily calling donors, often more time fundraising than speaking with voters. Campaigns that gain traction often do so because they have early financial backing before most voters are paying attention. Policy ideas are shaped early by what candidates believe powerful interests will tolerate.
That dynamic creates a system that can feel responsive during campaigns but often falls short in office. Many voters recognize this pattern. Candidates promise to address rising costs, health care access and economic pressures, yet meaningful change remains difficult even with broad public support.
Frustration continues to build as people feel increasingly disconnected from decisions that affect their daily lives.
In New Hampshire, voters are used to seeing candidates up close, asking direct questions and expecting real answers. That access creates real accountability.
Federal races are eroding that advantage. Outside money can determine which campaigns get attention and what candidates feel able to say once they are in office.
If we want a government that answers to constituents instead of donors, New Hampshire voters should support Karishma Manzur.