There are many reasons to respect Ed Friedrich and trust him to represent us in the NH House of Representatives, but sharing them all within the limits of a Letter to the Editor is a challenge. In the end, it comes down to three qualities that consistently impress me as I have gotten to know him: respect, service and common sense. Ed’s deep love and respect for his family, community, state and country extend beyond lip service. Saying that he is a Marine Corps veteran and has long been active in the American Legion and Lions Club describes his service, but not the level of compassion and appreciation for others that drives him to flip pancakes at Old Home Day, collect plastic bags to be recycled into trailside benches or speak out in support of veterans. He is also a longtime advocate for reproductive rights, strong public schools and property tax relief.

With years of experience managing hotels and restaurants, he knows the challenges of managing budgets and dealing with people of varying values, opinions and backgrounds. He believes that listening to others is the first step in finding common ground to solve problems, and he practices what he preaches. At a recent event, Ed drew enthusiastic applause with a simple comment: “If it makes common sense, let’s do it.” Voting for Ed makes a lot of sense to me, and I encourage other Loudon and Canterbury voters to join me in doing just that.

Leslie Bergevin

Loudon