Republicans and Democrats for the Senate and Executive Council districts covering Wilton got the chance to spar in mini-debates during a Candidate’s Night on Tuesday.
During a gathering at the Second Congregational Church in Wilton, Sen. Gary Daniels (R-Milford) and Democratic challenger Roger Tilton, also of Milford, often stood on opposite sides of the issues discussed.
Daniels, in his short introduction, stressed his experience in Concord – 26 years in the House or Senate – as well as the local governance level as a member of the School Board and then Select Board in Milford, saying he keeps the effect of state politics on local towns in mind when policy making.
Tilton took the tack that it was time for a change in the status quo, and touted a platform of women’s rights, including fair and equal pay, childcare benefits and support for Planned Parenthood.
When asked about their stance on the legalization of marijuana, Tilton spoke strongly in favor of “legalization, regulation and taxation” of marijuana, a touchstone he would return to when candidates were asked about ways to boost the state’s economy.
Daniels stood in opposition, pointing out that with the rise in heroin addiction and overdoses “now is not the time.”
The opioid crisis was also addressed by Executive Council incumbent, Republican Dave Wheeler, and Democratic challenger Dan Weeks.
Weeks spoke in favor of continuing Medicaid expansion, which provides addiction treatment.
Wheeler spoke of the efforts the state has already taken, such as increasing funding and access to the overdose reversal drug Narcan, increase in drug courts, and said the state needed to constantly measure its progress on the issue.
Wheeler and Weeks were also opposed on their views on funding Planned Parenthood – Wheeler against and Weeks for.
When asked about the economy, Wheeler said that the government needed to “step out of the way” of New Hampshire businesses, suggesting that it sometimes harshly hindered business growth and prosperity. Weeks advocated for a long-talked about commuter rail system from New Hampshire to Massachusetts, the expansion of broadband internet, and investment in education and growing a skilled workforce.
Ashley Saari can be reached at 924-7172, ext. 244.