New Hampshire GOP candidates debate trust in Congress

During a recent debate at New England College, Republican candidates vying for New Hampshire's 1st Congressional District discussed their strategies for restoring trust in Congress. Most candidates emphasized the importance of cooperation and positive communication, with Hollie Noveletsky advocating for finding like-minded colleagues to foster common understanding. Chris Bright highlighted the need for selfless service, drawing on his military background to stress prioritizing the nation's needs over personal gain. Joseph Kelly Levasseur, however, argued that conflict is inherent in the political process, suggesting that Democrats should heed Republican perspectives to reduce fighting. Walter McFarlane called for moderates to bridge the partisan divide, while Russell Prescott shared his experience of attracting diverse support through a positive approach. The debate was framed by a poll indicating that nearly 90% of Americans perceive a focus on conflict rather than problem-solving among lawmakers. This sentiment reflects a broader frustration with career politicians, as expressed by candidates who believe that a shift towards collaboration could restore public trust. As the GOP primary approaches, candidates are positioning themselves as solutions-oriented leaders capable of overcoming the current political climate. The discussion underscored the candidates' commitment to addressing the issues facing Congress and the importance of unity in achieving legislative goals.