Shawn Mickelonis
RepublicanQ1 What policies, if any, do you support or envision in managing land-based resources in New Hampshire (i.e. water, open-space preserves, parks)?
“I support responsible conservation of New Hampshire’s water, forests, parks, and open spaces while protecting private property rights. Government should be a responsible steward, not an obstacle to responsible development, agriculture, forestry, housing, and economic growth. We should protect drinking water supplies, address PFAS contamination, and hold responsible parties accountable when appropriate. I support maintaining our state parks and public lands while encouraging partnerships with local communities and the private sector. Conservation decisions should be based on sound science, fiscal responsibility, and local input not excessive regulation or one size fits all mandates. New Hampshire’s natural resources are a tremendous asset, and we can protect them while keeping our state affordable and economically competitive.”
KEYWORDS: Conservation, Property Rights, Stewardship
Q2 What policies and programs, if any, do you plan to implement regarding vaccines in the state of New Hampshire or throughout the US? What role, if any, does collaboration between scientists and policymakers have in this process?
“I support access to vaccines, informed medical decisions, individual liberty, and parental rights. I oppose unnecessary government mandates that interfere with the doctor patient relationship or remove reasonable choices from families. Public health policies should be based on credible scientific evidence, transparency, and measurable results not politics. Scientists and medical professionals should provide policymakers with the best available evidence, while elected officials remain responsible for balancing public health with constitutional rights and individual freedom. New Hampshire residents deserve clear information about benefits, risks, and alternatives so they can make informed decisions. Government should build public trust through transparency and accountability rather than coercion.”
KEYWORDS: Liberty, Choice, Science
Q3 New Hampshire is facing growing flood risk, reduced snowpack, and rising sea levels. What policies, if any, do you support in mitigating how natural disasters are affecting industries and life in New Hampshire?
“New Hampshire should prepare for flooding, severe storms, changing winter conditions, and other natural hazards through responsible planning and infrastructure investment. I support strengthening roads, bridges, drainage systems, dams, and emergency response capabilities while avoiding unnecessary mandates that increase costs for homeowners and businesses. State and local governments should work together to identify risks and prioritize projects based on need, cost effectiveness, and public safety. Healthy forests and watersheds can also help reduce erosion and manage stormwater. I believe prevention and preparedness are better than reacting after disasters occur. We should use sound science, engineering, and fiscal responsibility to protect communities while ensuring taxpayers receive value for every dollar spent.”
KEYWORDS: Preparedness, Infrastructure, Fiscal Responsibility
Q4 Advances in artificial intelligence and expansion of data centers are expected to affect industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, and transportation across the country. What policies, if any, do you plan to implement to address these potential impacts in New Hampshire?
“New Hampshire should embrace artificial intelligence and technological innovation while protecting individual rights and taxpayers. I support reducing unnecessary regulations that discourage businesses from investing and creating jobs in our state. At the same time, reasonable safeguards should protect privacy, cybersecurity, consumers, and sensitive information. Data centers should be welcomed when they provide economic benefits, but they must responsibly address electricity demand, infrastructure, water use, and impacts on surrounding communities without shifting unreasonable costs onto taxpayers. AI can also help government operate more efficiently and reduce unnecessary administrative expenses. We should prepare students and workers for new opportunities through education, workforce training, and partnerships with the private sector. New Hampshire should be a place where innovation and freedom can thrive.”
KEYWORDS: Innovation, Jobs, Freedom
Q5 Electricity demand is increasing due to manufacturing, electrification, and data infrastructure. What role, if any, do you believe developing alternative energy sources should contribute to the country’s future energy mix? What plans, if any, do you have to develop these alternative energy sources in New Hampshire, and how might they affect job opportunities in the state (if at all)?
“New Hampshire needs reliable, affordable, and abundant energy. I support an all of the above approach that includes nuclear power, natural gas, hydropower, solar, wind where appropriate, and emerging technologies. Nuclear power deserves serious consideration because it can provide reliable electricity while supporting economic growth. As demand increases from manufacturing, electrification, and data centers, we must expand generation and infrastructure without forcing unnecessary costs onto families and small businesses. I support reducing regulatory barriers, encouraging private investment, and allowing innovation to determine which technologies succeed. Responsible energy development can create high paying jobs in construction, engineering, manufacturing, technology, and infrastructure. Energy policy should prioritize affordability, reliability, consumer choice, and New Hampshire’s long-term economic competitiveness.”
KEYWORDS: Affordability, Reliability, Jobs