THE SOAPBOX

Stand up. Speak up. It’s your turn.

I HAVE seen firsthand why legislative experience matters. This year in Concord reminded me just how important it is to have lawmakers who know how to do the work and get real results. Here in New Hampshire, we face challenges, but we also have incredible opportunities. We are not just talking about ideas. We are saving lives with bills like HB701, which is already making an impact. When legislators stay focused on results instead of headlines, good things happen. That is the difference between Concord and Washington right now.

What troubles me most is the disconnect from our federal representation and the work we are doing here at the state level. In Concord, we are close to the people we represent. We hear from families, small business owners, and local leaders every day. In Washington, too often, those voices are drowned out by political theater and endless bickering. That is why New Hampshire cannot afford to send another politician to Congress who is learning on the job. We need someone who has already proven they can navigate the legislative process, build coalitions, and deliver for the people they serve.

That is why I am supporting Brian Cole for Congress. I have worked alongside Brian in the State House. I know he does not just talk about change. He delivers it. He listens to people. He fights for Granite Staters. And he never forgets who he is there to serve.

One issue that showed me just how much experience matters is bail reform. During a ride along with the Manchester Police Department, I saw officers work tirelessly to take criminals off the streets. I saw the danger they put themselves in and the sacrifices they make. Yet far too often, those same criminals were back out on the street before the officers even finished their reports. That revolving door was not only demoralizing, it was dangerous. It made it harder for law enforcement to do their jobs and it put our neighborhoods at risk. Passing bail reform was about closing that door. It was about giving police the tools they need and restoring accountability to our justice system. That is what serious legislating looks like.

This year in Concord, we proved again that experience makes all the difference. We passed bail reform to keep our communities safe. We expanded school choice and defended parental rights so families can make the best decisions for their children. We stood firm for the Second Amendment and advanced policies that reflect New Hampshire values. None of this happened by accident. It happened because legislators with experience put in the work to get it done.

We have Governor Kelly Ayotte leading the way at the state level. I might not agree with her on everything, but she understands the challenges we face and she is focused on solutions that strengthen New Hampshire. Her leadership is a reminder of what experienced, principled public service looks like. Just as Governor Ayotte is leading here at home, we need strong partners in Washington who will do the same for our state.

That is why I trust Brian Cole to represent New Hampshire in Congress. I have seen him do the hard work here at home. Washington does not need more bickering or more headlines. It needs proven leaders who can turn talk into results. That is why Brian Cole is the right choice for Congress.

—Rep. Steven Kesselring,

Hillsborough 18, Manchester

Clerk of House Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services. Member of the House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee.