Sara Dillingham, Salem State Representative Candidate

Sara Dillingham

Age (as of Election Day)

29

Position Sought

NH State Representative

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Family

Mary Dillingham of Nashua, Richard Naro of Hudson

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Master of Social Work from The University of Southern California; Bachelor of Social Work and Women's Studies (minor in Race, Culture, and Power) from The University of New Hampshire

Occupation

Admissions Manager at an educational nonprofit (3 years), Youth Employment Specialist (2 years), Residential Counselor (2 years)

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

None

Campaign website

www.saradillingham.org

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am running for NH State Representative because I am passionate about issues currently impacting our state and our communities. I am a product of New Hampshire; I was born and raised in Nashua and attended UNH for undergrad. I believe I am the person I am today because I was raised on the values of Granite Staters and have a deep sense of state pride. My purpose is to put people before politics. I want to team with the people of New Hampshire, be a strong voice in Concord, and advocate for our marginalized communities regardless of political affiliation. I am prepared to work hard to do what is best for our families, friends, and loved ones. I am running to represent Salem to better speak up for our town, to be a young, female, openly LGBTQ+ member of the House, and to be a much needed diverse perspective representing Salem.

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

The single most pressing issue facing our state is COVID-19, the financial repercussions of the pandemic, our unemployment crisis, and the all-encompassing ripple effect COVID-19 has had and will have on NH residents and our communities. We need to work together to support those who have been impacted by COVID-19 and also need to develop precautions and procedures to ensure that NH can support its residents as inevitable pandemics continue to occur. While looking toward the future, we must continue to support NH's public health. I would encourage mask mandates, widely available and rapid COVID-19 testing, and support scientists as they develop vaccines and continue to understand the long-term effects of this illness. Unemployment, financial and housing instability, and access to basic human necessities has to be at the forefront of legislative priorities.

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

I offer a different perspective and mindset than the individuals who have historically represented Salem. As a young woman who is openly a member of the LGBTQ+ community, my life experiences alone offer a unique perspective. Coupled with my educational background in social work and my experiences advocating for vulnerable populations and activist mindset, I will bring a needed fresh take when representing Salem.

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

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

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

The best advice ever shared with me was …

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