Melanie Levesque, Nashua State Senate Candidate

Melanie Levesque

Age (as of Election Day)

65

Position sought (including district number if applicable)

State Senate

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Family

Logan 25 Graduate of Emanuel College Husband Scott - Retired

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Nashua Community College - AA, Daniel Webster College-BA, Southern NH University-MBA

Occupation

Telecommunications Consultant 20 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

State Senate 2018-2020

Campaign website

Melanie4NHSenate

Why are you seeking elective office?

It is important to have legislators who work for the common good to help implement policies that help all granite staters thrive. That means supporting our public schools ensuring all children have an opportunity for a great education and our teachers are respected for the important work they do. Keeping taxes low, making healthcare affordable, respecting reproductive freedom and voting rights, supporting renewable energy policy, protecting our civil liberties and protecting our climate.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

There are many issues of concern that we face the loss of women's reproductive freedom, schools under assault, Inflation, taxes, climate change and more. The most pressing problem is our inability to work together to solve these problems. Legislating is not about power, it is about empowering the people we serve to live to their fullest potential. People with differences, especially legislators, should be able to set differences aside to solve problems we face and support policies that improve the lives of the people we serve.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

My life experiences have taught me how to work well with all people regardless of differences. I look for common ground. I do not deal in culture wars or lead with ideology. I would never lie about my opponents record or to the public to win an election. (nor do I have to). I work to understand problems, do my research and advocate for positive solutions. I believe that Freedom and safety should be for all not just for some. I believe people can have different ideas however legislators should not impose their religious values on all constituents. We are a diverse society and everyone needs to be heard, respected and valued.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

My opponent has lied about my record which is very concerning. He voted for an abortion ban, to defund schools, and the ability to sue our teachers for teaching history. He supported conversion therapy for young LGBTQIA + individuals. Someone who holds a position of public trust should be worthy of it. In 2020 these same tactics were used (yellow signs touting lies) and brought us an extreme republican majority that has little regard for folks that just want to raise their families, educate their children, and have the freedom of choice. I will be a Senator who respects those values.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

The idea of community is core to my campaign. i believe strongly in working with all my constituents. I am not going to ask or care whether you voted for me or not or what political party you support. If you need my help I will be there. As legislators we have access to state departments that can help resolve issues and address problems people face.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As a representative I sponsored and passed the NH Statewide Emergency Notification System. I worked with my Brookline Emergency Manager Wes Whittier, the Department of Safety and telecommunication service providers to understand the process, the concerns and gain consensus to pass the bill. This system is in place today. As a Senator and Chair of Election Law I championed Automated Voter Registration a secure accurate and modern way of registering eligible citizens to vote that is verified at the Department of Motor Vehicles and completed by the Supervisors of the Checklist who add the qualified voter names to the voter roles. I traveled to three states to understand how they implemented the program and keep cost down. I also sponsored the bill to proceed with the next phase of passenger rail which determined the design and cost of the project. I am also proud to have cast votes to pass Marriage Equality and Repeal the Death Penalty in NH.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

My dad said "Be your own boss and you will have more control of your life" That stuck with me and I am proud to be a successful small business owner.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I grew up in a Nashua neighborhood where everyone looked out for each other. I attended Broad St. School and still remember my Principal Mrs. Bryant. My mom Betty Perkins taught me the importance of education, a good work ethic, and service. We helped out at many pancake breakfasts and spaghetti suppers at the First Church. When my mom died I raised my brother and sister, Mark and Cindy. They are both successful and I am extremely proud of them. These are the things that made me the person I am today. Someone who believes in being good to your neighbors, serving to make this world a better place, and creating opportunity for all to be the best that they can be.