Murphy: People And Policy Over Partisan Politics

There are many reasons citizens are turned-off by ‘politics.’ Differences between the positions held by political parties are expected, but what shouldn’t be accepted are baseless attacks that go beyond a discussion of the issues to the point of character assassination.

A recent example of this is a 10/22/24 on-line letter to the editor written by Ms. Ginger Hinkle Heald, Chair of the Merrimack Republican Town Committee. In it, she fabricates a gross misrepresentation of conversations I had with local businesses seeking permission to erect political signs at their locations. Similar conversations have been held with over 150 town residents who have given Rep. Rosemarie Rung and I permission to post our joint sign on their property as the law requires. Despite the fact that Ms. Heald was not present for those conversations, she has falsely portrayed me as an unethical, power-hungry bully to gain a sign placement. Anyone who has known me over the 38 years I have lived in Merrimack, raised my children, volunteered in their schools, our church, and for other community organizations know her claims are baseless. In my service as a Town Councilor and State Representative, I have a sterling reputation of working cooperatively within the highest ethical standards.

People of Merrimack are sick of this. They want to hear about policies and ideas that will make their lives better - to live affordably, be healthy, and have good schools for their children to attend in a safe community. These are the conversations Rosemarie and I are having with voters. They certainly don’t want Ms. Heald's dirty politics and the division that comes with it.

I know many folks will "consider the source" and the timing…I hope they do. We can’t tolerate meritless partisan attacks by those in our community who are more intent on dividing us over politics than willing to work together to ensure that our Merrimack community remains one where mutual respect is a given, and residents can be counted upon to look after one another.