Heald: Candidates Strong-Arming In Merrimack

I’m writing to bring attention to some deeply concerning behavior from Nancy Murphy, a current Merrimack Town Councilor and incumbent candidate for NH state representative. Recently, Ms. Murphy visited numerous high-visibility businesses in Merrimack to request permission to display her campaign signs. When several business owners respectfully declined, Ms. Murphy responded by reminding them of her position as a town councilor and implying that they might need a permit to display campaign signs on their business’ property. Furthermore, it has been reported that she implied that the businesses must be bipartisan in their sign display. She has even gone so far as to display her campaign signs (and some fellow Democrat incumbents and candidates signs) on some business’ properties without permission or invitation.

This is not only an abuse of power but also unethical and tantamount to bullying. No elected official should use their position to intimidate local businesses into compliance for personal gain. Such actions reflect poorly on her character and suggest a troubling pattern of behavior.

As a Democrat State Representative, Ms. Murphy’s actions further diminish public trust in our local government. This type of strong-arming is not how we should expect our leaders to behave. Her strong-arming and intimidation has left all but one business afraid to speak out on this matter for fear of retaliation.

I urge Merrimack residents to consider carefully who they choose to represent them in Concord, because this kind of conduct has no place in our community or in our state government.