Kevin CavanaughPrimary Election 2022 Winner

What are the most important concerns you’ve heard from Manchester residents and how can you address those concerns if elected or re-elected through your role as an Executive Counselor?

The state needs to fully fund their portion of the state retirement system and take the financial burden off of municipalities who can then work to lower property taxes.

What is your overarching philosophy when it comes to approving or denying state government contracts? How about when it comes to approving or denying appointees to departments within the state government?

1. Decisions of approving or denying state government contracts should always be made with the people of New Hampshire in mind. My overarching philosophy when it comes to approving or denying state government contracts would center around these questions:
   1. Will this contract serve the people of New Hampshire in the manner which we intend?
   2. How will this impact the people of New Hampshire and their wallets?
   3. Are we getting what we are paying for (“we” being the state)?
   4. Who is the party that the state will be awarding the contract to? And what is the reputation of this party? Do they have a track record of delivering in a cost efficient, timely, and dependable manner?
2. My overarching philosophy regarding approving or denying appointees to departments within the state government is – If the person is qualified for the position, has a reputation that is befitting of the office for which they will be appointed, and has the best interest of the people of New Hampshire at the forefront of their intentions, they should be considered for the appointment. I also believe that a history political extremism should be considered when deciding on appointments. Appointees should bolster the confidence that the people of New Hampshire have in the position/office that they are being considered for appointment. Public Service is an honor, and appointees should be approved or denied based on their ability to serve the state honorably and diligently.

In your conversations with voters, what is the most significant issue to them right now? How would you address that if elected or re-elected?

The rising cost of energy is a large concern for Manchester voters. If elected, I will do everything that I can to decrease this burden on ratepayers by working with the Public Utilities Commission and advocating for diversifying our energy portfolio in the Granite State.

In your view, describe the relationship over the past two years within the Executive Council and between the Executive Council and Governor Sununu. Do you believe this atmosphere will continue over the next two years and how would that affect how you approach this position if elected or re-elected?

1. In my view, the power and independence of the Executive Council, has been diminished because 4/5 members have essentially been acting as a rubber stamp for Governor Sununu. They have voted against the facts, against sworn testimony provided, and against the interests of Granite Staters. It is my hope that we will elect an Executive Council that will do the job that they are constitutionally charged with doing, i.e., making responsible and evidence-based decisions on business that comes before the Council. However, if I have the honor of being elected, I am confident that no matter the partisan makeup of the Executive Council, I will be able to communicate and collaborate with my fellow councilors in a manner that best serves the people of New Hampshire.

What is the most significant issue facing Manchester residents at the local level right now and as an Executive Councilor, what do you believe your role is toward impacting this issue?

See Answer to #3: The rising cost of energy is a large concern for Manchester voters. If elected, I will do everything that I can to decrease this burden on ratepayers by working with the Public Utilities Commission and advocating for diversifying our energy portfolio in the Granite State.

How do you feel the current divisive political climate in the United States will impact the Executive Council over the next two years and how would you navigate that divisiveness in your duties?

I think that we always see some of the divisiveness that occurs at the national level trickle down to the state. However, just as I did while serving in the legislature, I will work every day to find common ground with my colleagues, regardless of their party. I am proud of my reputation as someone that can work with anyone. We may not always agree on an issue, but I always treat my colleagues with respect, and because of this, I have been able to build consensus to find solutions that help Granite Stater

In your opinion, what were the five most significant actions taken by the Executive Council over the last two years?

1. 7/27/2022 – Votes on authorization to enter into contracts with Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, Lovering Health Center, and Equality Health Center.
2. 4/20/22 – Voting to table $100 million housing plan because of lack of guarantees/restrictions/details on plan
3. 09/15/21 – Votes on expending federal funds to pay for immunization programs/vaccines
4. 02/17/21 – Vote for reappointment of Frank Edelblut
5. 01/22/21 – Vote for appointment of Gordon MacDonald as Chief Justice

Given that most states don’t have an Executive Council, does it still play a necessary role in New Hampshire government?

The New Hampshire Executive Council serves as the stewards of the state’s finances. They are handling the business of the state and provide a very important check on the power and decisions of the Governor. The Executive Council provides another form of representation for Granite Staters, with each Councilor representing approximately 263,000 people.