Breaking Newsđź“° News & ReportingInvestigative ReportsNational PoliticsState Politics

Defending the Oath: Why Maggie Goodlander Is Right About “Illegal Orders”

Rep. Maggie Goodlander and fellow lawmakers emphasize that service members must refuse illegal orders, a principle upheld by military law. In response, Trump labeled their message as “seditious behavior.” Goodlander argues that loyalty to the Constitution, not a president, is essential, warning against the dangers of equating obedience with patriotism.

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đź“° News & ReportingLegislative Watch (NH Bills & Votes)

HB 189: New Hampshire Just Quietly Redefined “Clean Energy.” Here’s Why That Matters.

By Granite State Report New Hampshire just rewired the legal meaning of “clean energy.” HB 189 is now law, signed by Governor Ayotte and taking effect September 13, 2025.(LegiScan) On paper, it looks like a harmless language tweak. In practice, it tells you a lot about where our political class…

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Breaking Newsđź“° News & ReportingGovernor Kelly Ayotte AdministrationState Politics

“Recalibration” or Retrenchment? Inside New Hampshire’s New Two-Year Budget Proposal

Governor Kelly Ayotte’s initial budget proposal for New Hampshire aims to avoid new taxes while promoting a leaner government. However, despite a $16 billion plan, the House’s revisions cut spending by $643 million, raising concerns about long-term impacts on education, healthcare, and local taxpayers, indicating complex trade-offs ahead.

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đź“° News & ReportingInvestigative ReportsNational PoliticsWorld News and Politics

“Just Following Orders at Sea”: Are U.S. Troops Personally Liable for Strikes on Suspected Drug Boats?

U.S. forces have intensified lethal strikes against suspected drug boats, with at least 80 deaths reported since September. While legal opinions suggest these actions are lawful under a new “armed conflict” paradigm, critics argue they violate international law. This creates legal and moral dilemmas for operators carrying out these orders.

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đź“° News & ReportingNational PoliticsTrump Administration

Trump’s Slipping Grip on New Hampshire: Why Granite Staters Are Cooling on the President

New Hampshire’s voter sentiment toward Trump is shifting negatively as he struggles with independents and suburban moderates, evidenced by declining favorable ratings and increasing concerns over democracy and political violence. Despite maintaining strong support among Republicans, Trump’s inability to resonate with broader state issues poses risks for his political future in New Hampshire.

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đź“° News & ReportingNational PoliticsTrump AdministrationWorld News and Politics

“Shoot the Boat”: Inside the New War on Drug Smugglers at Sea

The U.S. has escalated its drug war tactics by conducting airstrikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats, resulting in over 80 deaths. Critics argue these strikes violate international law and amount to extrajudicial killings. While proponents claim deterrence, evidence suggests traditional interdiction methods are more effective and ethically sound.

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đź“° News & ReportingNational Politics

The United States 2025: Navigating Division and Opportunity

The United States in the mid-2020s faces a complex mix of economic growth paired with inequality, profound political polarization, and demographic shifts toward diversity and aging. Climate change adds urgency, prompting debates on adaptation and fairness. The future hinges on choices made by citizens and leaders alike, with several plausible trajectories ahead.

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Breaking Newsđź“° News & ReportingInvestigative ReportsNational Politics

Why the Government Shut Down — And Who’s Really to Blame

The recent U.S. government shutdown lasted 43 days, marking the longest in history, with repercussions affecting nearly a million federal employees and various essential services. The standoff primarily revolved around funding disagreements related to ACA subsidies, revealing deep political divides and systemic issues. Both parties share responsibility for the shutdown and its consequences.

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đź’Ľ Economy & Innovationđź“° News & ReportingEconomic InequalityInvestigative Reports

The Birth of Bitcoin—and the Vanishing of Its Creator

Bitcoin emerged from a nine-page PDF by Satoshi Nakamoto in 2008, laying the groundwork for a decentralized currency. After developing the network, Satoshi disappeared in 2011, leaving behind a legacy shrouded in mystery. Subsequent attempts to identify Satoshi have been unsubstantiated, reinforcing the importance of anonymity in decentralized systems.

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AI, Tech & Digital Policy“Under the Dome” (Statehouse coverage)💼 Economy & Innovation📚 Special Series / Deep Dives📰 News & Reporting

New Hampshire's AI Laws: Combating Deepfakes and Deception

New Hampshire’s 2024 legislation addresses artificial intelligence usage, establishing laws against fraudulent deepfakes, requiring disclosures for deceptive AI in political ads, and mandating transparency for state agencies’ AI use. These measures enhance protections against AI deception, emphasizing accountability and human oversight, while setting a precedent for future regulations.

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Breaking Newsđź“° News & ReportingInvestigative ReportsNational PoliticsState Politics

The U.S. in 2025: What’s Really Squeezing Americans — And How It Lands in New Hampshire

New Hampshire faces critical economic pressures in 2025, including high inflation, soaring energy costs, and a housing shortage, leading to affordability challenges. While overdose deaths and crime rates have decreased, rising health insurance premiums put additional strain on families. Policy reforms in housing, childcare, and health care are essential to maintain competitiveness and livability.

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Breaking Newsđź“° News & ReportingGovernor Kelly Ayotte AdministrationInvestigative ReportsLegislative Watch (NH Bills & Votes)State Politics

New Hampshire Redistricting Effort Shelved Ahead of 2026 Elections

A proposal to redraw New Hampshire’s congressional districts has been withdrawn after Governor Kelly Ayotte opposed changes before 2030. This decision maintains the current “least-change” map adopted in 2022, preserving a competitive landscape for the 1st Congressional District as both parties prepare for the 2026 midterms amidst ongoing political tensions.

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Breaking Newsđź“° News & ReportingGovernor Kelly Ayotte Administration

Kelly Ayotte’s War on Massachusetts: When “Live Free or Die” Becomes “Do as I Say”

Governor Kelly Ayotte’s crusade against sanctuary cities reveals a troubling blend of hypocrisy and division. By labeling Massachusetts as a threat, Ayotte diverts attention from pressing issues like housing shortages and healthcare costs. Her stance undermines New Hampshire’s core values, showing how political theater often overshadows genuine leadership.

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AI, Tech & Digital PolicyBreaking Newsđź’Ľ Economy & Innovationđź“° News & ReportingInvestigative ReportsJobs & Workforce

AI-Driven Layoffs at Amazon & UPS: A Granite State Report Review

Amazon and UPS are leading the charge in AI-driven workforce restructuring, signaling a future where automation reshapes corporate landscapes. As these tech giants scale back human roles, the implications for job security and industry transformation become increasingly clear. Discover how AI is redefining the workforce today.

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AI, Tech & Digital Policyđź’Ľ Economy & Innovationđź“° News & ReportingInvestigative Reports

Navigating the Future of Work in New Hampshire: Key Insights

By Granite State Report Introduction We previously explored how the generation after Generation Z may face a very different relationship to “jobs” and “careers” due to automation, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and shifting work-norms. In this special report we turn our focus to New Hampshire: how might this transformation play…

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AI, Tech & Digital Policyđź’Ľ Economy & Innovationđź“° News & ReportingInvestigative Reports

The Future of Work: Careers Redefined for Gen Alpha

By Granite State Report Executive SummaryIt’s time to confront a wild but increasingly plausible idea: the generation following Generation Z (often called “Gen Alpha” and younger) may never experience careers in the way their parents did. Thanks to the accelerating sweep of automation, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and digital platforms,…

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đź“° News & ReportingGovernor Kelly Ayotte AdministrationLegislative Watch (NH Bills & Votes)State Politics

New Hampshire House Record: Ethical Debates & Vetoes Unveiled

The October 24, 2025 House Record of New Hampshire’s General Court highlights key ethical debates, vetoes, and legislative challenges facing the state. Governor Ayotte’s cautious conservatism influences decisions on various bills, from child care to transgender rights, revealing tensions between individual liberties and collective governance in New Hampshire’s evolving political landscape.

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Community Voicesđź’¬ Opinion & Commentaryđź“° News & ReportingInvestigative Reports

Life Inside Belknap House: Safety or Confinement?

The author describes their experience at Belknap House, which initially seemed welcoming but quickly revealed itself to be restrictive and controlling. Privacy is nonexistent, with strict rules regulating medication, curfews, and personal autonomy. While the staff are well-meaning, the environment feels more like custody than refuge, undermining dignity and independence.

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College Sports Reportđź“° News & ReportingSports

The State of New Hampshire College Basketball at UNH (2025)

The University of New Hampshire basketball programs, led by coaches Nathan Davis and Megan Shoniker, face crucial junctures. The men’s team seeks its first NCAA Tournament ticket, while the women, rebuilding, showcase standout Eva DeChent. Both squads aim to leverage local talent and NIL opportunities for future success in the America East conference.

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đź“° News & ReportingInvestigative Reports

Is New Hampshire Still Affordable? A 2025 Deep-Dive on Housing, Property Taxes, Energy Bills, Schools, and PFAS

New Hampshire’s median home sale price was approximately $510,600 in September 2025, following a peak of $565,000 in June. The state has no sales tax, but property taxes face increased pressure post-Interest & Dividends tax repeal. Ongoing energy cost concerns, PFAS cleanup, and school funding debates add complexity to affordability challenges.

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đź“° News & ReportingInvestigative Reports

The Economy of Character: How Economic Performance Shapes the American Presidency

This investigative report reveals how voters’ perceptions of presidential character are closely tied to economic conditions rather than personal virtues. The University of California study demonstrates that favorable economic indicators lead to positive evaluations of intelligence and morality, while downturns diminish these views, highlighting democracy’s emotional underpinnings and the role of media in shaping perceptions.

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Culture & Identity🌱 Community & Culture💬 Opinion & Commentary📰 News & Reporting🗳️ Civic & PoliticalIndependent VoicesUnaffiliated Movement

A Partisan Press Release, A Ranked State — and a Need for Nuanced Discussion

On October 22, 2025, the NH GOP celebrated New Hampshire’s ranking as the top state for families, citing Republican leadership. While the ranking is legitimate, the press release lacks nuance, omitting critical factors such as housing costs and other rankings. The message reflects partisan framing instead of fostering cooperative dialogue about ongoing challenges.

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Community Voicesđź’¬ Opinion & Commentaryđź“° News & ReportingInvestigative Reports

Did the Baby Boomers Screw the Millennials? A Data Check for the Granite State

Millennials face significant economic challenges due to policies favoring older asset owners, resulting in limited access to affordable housing, education, and childcare. Wealth disparities persist, compounded by rising student debt and stagnant wages. Solutions require structural reforms in housing, childcare, education financing, and social insurance to create equitable opportunities for younger generations.

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đź“° News & ReportingInvestigative Reports

State Contract Funding: An Investigative Report

The report analyzes state contract funding, highlighting complexity and risks in the allocation of taxpayer dollars to private entities. It reveals issues such as lack of transparency, manipulation of contracts, and payment delays. Recommendations include enhancing oversight, improving transparency, and fostering competition to safeguard taxpayer interests and maintain public trust.

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đź“° News & ReportingPublic Health & Safety

No More Annual Car Inspections for Most NH Drivers Starting Jan. 31, 2026 — What Changes, What Doesn’t, and How to Stay Legal

New Hampshire will end mandatory annual safety inspections for passenger vehicles on January 31, 2026, though the current system remains until then. Drivers must continue inspections until the date, as unsafe equipment laws still apply. Commercial vehicles will still require federal inspections. Emissions testing changes are under process.

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Breaking NewsCrime & Justiceđź“° News & Reporting

Pursuit on I-95 Ends in Arrest, Forgery Charges, and Seizure of Fraudulent IDs — What We Know and Why It Matters

On October 20, 2025, a high-speed pursuit in New Hampshire ended when police deployed tire-deflation devices, arresting Gongping Cheng, 39, for reckless driving and possessing multiple forged driver’s licenses. He faces serious charges, including four felonies. Cheng remains in preventive detention, awaiting arraignment in Portsmouth District Court.

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Breaking NewsCrime & Justiceđź“° News & ReportingGovernor Kelly Ayotte AdministrationState Politics

Ayotte’s Dartmouth murder prosecution is back in court — and reshaping juvenile justice in NH

CONCORD — A case that helped launch Kelly Ayotte’s law-and-order reputation is once again before New Hampshire courts. More than two decades after Ayotte, then an assistant attorney general, helped prosecute the teens who killed Dartmouth College professors Half and Susanne Zantop, the life-without-parole sentence for the ringleader, Robert Tulloch,…

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💬 Opinion & Commentary🗳️ Civic & PoliticalEditorialsExplainedInvestigative Reports

Red vs. Blue: America’s Great Political Divide—and How We Got Here

By Granite State Report Executive Summary America’s “Red vs. Blue” split didn’t appear overnight, and it isn’t just about ideology. Our parties have grown more sorted (liberals in the Democratic Party, conservatives in the Republican Party) and our politics more affective—we increasingly dislike and distrust the other side, regardless of…

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đź’¬ Opinion & Commentaryđź“° News & ReportingEditorialsGovernor Kelly Ayotte AdministrationInvestigative ReportsPollingState Politics

Governor Kelly Ayotte’s Stance Against Adult-Use Cannabis: Leaving New Hampshire Behind?

New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte firmly opposes legalizing recreational cannabis, citing youth health risks and road safety concerns. Despite federal shifts, Ayotte vows to veto any state bills advancing legalization, leaving New Hampshire behind on tax revenue and economic opportunity.

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Climate Policy🌲 Environment & Rural Life💬 Opinion & Commentary📰 News & ReportingEditorialsGovernor Kelly Ayotte AdministrationRenewable Energy

Why Governor Kelly Ayotte’s Push to Revive the Constitution Pipeline — and Her Roll-Back of Offshore Wind — Are Misguided for New Hampshire’s Climate Future

Governor Ayotte’s support for the Constitution Pipeline marks a shift toward fossil fuels, despite New Hampshire’s urgent climate goals. As the state retreats from offshore wind, the environmental impact becomes starkly apparent.

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Crime & Justice📰 News & Reporting🗳️ Civic & PoliticalInvestigative Reports

Ending Qualified Immunity for Police in New Hampshire

Qualified immunity, a legal doctrine shielding law enforcement from personal liability unless a “clearly established” right is violated, faces scrutiny in New Hampshire. Proposed reforms aim to enhance accountability and align state constitutional rights with legal recourse. Critics warn of increased litigation and risk of defensive policing, complicating reform efforts.

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🏥 Health & Wellness📰 News & Reporting

Elevated Kidney Cancer Rates in Merrimack and Manchester

Recent research indicates a significant increase in kidney cancer cases in Merrimack, New Hampshire, contradicting prior assumptions. The study highlights a 38% surge in Merrimack and an 18% rise in Manchester. Concerns persist over PFAS contamination linked to a now-demolished facility, prompting calls for further research and community awareness regarding exposure and health risks.

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💬 Opinion & Commentary🔍 Watchdog & AccountabilityFact Checks & Misinformation WatchInvestigative Reports

The Algorithm Is Watching: Inside the Bot Farms, Shadow Bans, and the New Age of Digital Censorship

By Granite State Report In the beginning, social media sold itself as a democratic miracle — a place where anyone could speak truth to power. But that promise rotted fast. Behind the memes and trending hashtags, an invisible war is raging between bots, algorithms, and human moderators armed with delete…

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Crime & Justiceđź”— Resources & ToolsExplained

Manchester NH Crime Statistics: Your In-Depth Guide

Manchester, NH’s crime statistics show a city with elevated crime rates compared to both state and national averages. While property crime is notably higher, violent crime remains less than alarming. Understanding context is essential, as urban areas typically exhibit different crime dynamics than rural regions, highlighting a need for informed public safety measures.

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Crime & Justiceđź”— Resources & ToolsExplained

New Hampshire Crime Statistics Uncovered: An In-Depth Analysis

New Hampshire consistently ranks as one of the safest states in the U.S. with low violent and property crime rates. Recent trends reveal a 4.3% drop in overall violent crime, but an increase in assaults. While property crime slightly rose, the state’s homicide rate has increased significantly. Public safety is influenced by various complex factors, including community cohesion and economic stability.

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Breaking Newsđź“° News & ReportingGovernor Kelly Ayotte AdministrationInvestigative ReportsState Politics

Kelly Ayotte's Favorability Decline: Impact on 2026 Election

New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte’s approval ratings have recently dropped close to disapproval levels, indicating her vulnerable political position ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election. Unpopular policy decisions around budget cuts and education have contributed to this decline, raising concerns about her chance of reelection amidst potential primaries and emerging Republican challengers.

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Culture & Identity🌱 Community & Culture💬 Opinion & Commentary📰 News & ReportingInvestigative Reports

Ending Fat Shaming in the Military: A Call for Reform

The article explores fat shaming within the military, highlighting its detrimental effects on mental health, performance, and retention. It critiques outdated fitness standards and flawed measurement tools, while advocating for reforms that prioritize functional performance over appearance. Emphasizing equity and support, it calls for a cultural shift towards more humane and scientifically-based standards.

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📰 News & Reporting🔍 Watchdog & AccountabilityInvestigative Reports

Reviving American Democracy: Trust and Engagement Challenges

The United States is experiencing a democratic decline despite advances in information and technology. A significant portion of the population expresses distrust in political institutions, with many believing substantial reforms are essential. Civic knowledge is eroding, polarization is intensifying, and misinformation thrives, highlighting the urgency for systemic changes to restore faith in democracy.

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Community Voices💬 Opinion & Commentary📚 Special Series / Deep DivesForgotten NH: Rural & Underserved VoicesInvestigative Reports

A Lost Generation: Why We Have No Economic Future

A Lost Generation: Why We Have No Economic Future There’s a quiet despair running through America’s young adults, and it isn’t melodrama—it’s math. The so-called “economic future” has been sold off, collateralized, and hollowed out, leaving behind a generation destined to work harder for less. Stagnant Wages, Exploding Costs For…

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đź’¬ Opinion & CommentaryEditorialsFact Checks & Misinformation WatchInvestigative ReportsTrump Administration

How Cognitive Sophistication Influenced Trump's Voter Base

A study by Darren Sherkat reveals that Donald Trump’s voter base consisted largely of individuals with lower cognitive sophistication. Voters with higher education and verbal skills were significantly less likely to support him. This indicates a strong link between Trump’s success and anti-intellectualism, shaping the future political landscape along the lines of education and belief systems.

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📰 News & Reporting🔍 Watchdog & AccountabilityNational PoliticsPublic Records RequestsTrump Administration

Trump (via DOJ) vs. New Hampshire: The Fight Over Voter Data

In 2025, a legal battle has emerged between the Trump administration and New Hampshire over the release of detailed voter registration data. The DOJ argues that federal law mandates access, while New Hampshire cites state confidentiality laws and privacy concerns. The outcome could significantly impact the balance of power in election administration.

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Breaking Newsđź“° News & Reporting

BREAKING: Multi-Vehicle Crash at Hampton Tolls Shuts I-95 Open Road Lanes; Police Seek Driver of White Car

HAMPTON, N.H. — New Hampshire State Police are investigating a chain-reaction crash involving five vehicles — including two tractor-trailers — inside the open road tolling (ORT) lanes on Interstate 95 in Hampton early Thursday, September 25, 2025. Troopers say dispatch received the first 911 calls at 6:42 a.m. Initial reports…

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đź“° News & ReportingInvestigative ReportsNational PoliticsWorld News and Politics

Defending Democracy or Capitalism? A Critical Military Analysis

The U.S. military operates under the guise of promoting democracy, yet often prioritizes capitalism and strategic interests. While officials assert the mission is to defend democratic values, historical actions reveal a tendency to support capitalist elites and intervene only when U.S. economic interests are at stake, compromising true democratic ideals.

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📰 News & Reporting🔍 Watchdog & Accountability🗳️ Civic & PoliticalNational Politics

Understanding the Balance of Power in the U.S. House

The balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives is vital for determining legislative control and priorities. Comprising 435 members, the House’s majority influences the legislative agenda, committee appointments, and governance direction. Shifts in party control reflect public sentiment and impact significant national policies across various issues. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for citizens.

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Breaking Newsđź’¬ Opinion & Commentaryđź“° News & ReportingPolitical Satire

Jimmy Kimmel Returns!

Jimmy Kimmel’s return to late-night television signifies more than entertainment; it represents a revival of cultural commentary that resonates deeply with audiences. Balancing humor with political and personal topics, Kimmel provides a stable voice in a fragmented media landscape, emphasizing the importance of truth and laughter in today’s society.

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🌲 Environment & Rural Life💼 Economy & Innovation📰 News & ReportingHousing & Real EstateLand Use & ZoningState Politics

New Hampshire Housing Crisis: Unaffordable Homes for Families

New Hampshire’s housing market is increasingly unaffordable for middle-class families, with median home prices reaching $515,000. Rising prices, stagnant wages, and low housing supply leave families struggling, as the median income is just under $90,000. Legislative efforts to address the crisis are stalled, risking the state’s future.

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💬 Opinion & Commentary📰 News & Reporting🔍 Watchdog & AccountabilityEditorialsInvestigative ReportsLobbying & CorruptionWorld News and Politics

Facebook, Free Speech, and the Case for Public Utility Regulation

The article argues that Facebook has transformed the public square into a private entity, monopolizing civic discourse. It proposes regulating Facebook as a public utility to ensure free speech, fairness, and transparency. Increasingly vital for grassroots campaigns and local politics, the platform’s algorithmic decisions and content policies hinder democratic engagement.

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🌱 Community & Culture💼 Economy & Innovation📰 News & ReportingEconomic InequalityEducation & SchoolsInvestigative Reports

Understanding New Hampshire’s Broken School Funding System

New Hampshire’s school funding system relies heavily on local property taxes, creating significant inequities between wealthy and property-poor communities. Despite court rulings declaring the funding approach unconstitutional, reforms remain stalled. As a result, students in poorer districts face limited opportunities, while wealthier towns thrive, perpetuating a cycle of educational disparity.

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