Republicans Sue Library Over Candidate Questionnaire

In Goffstown, New Hampshire, a library's questionnaire for local candidates has stirred controversy. Former state representative Ross Berry and current state senator Keith Murphy, both Republicans, are suing the library. They claim the questions are biased and that the library is illegally using public resources to influence elections. The library's director, Dianne Hathaway, declined to comment on the lawsuit. The questionnaire asked about topics like education funding, abortion rights, and LGBTQ+ issues. The Republicans argue that public institutions should remain neutral in election matters. An attorney from the New Hampshire Department of Justice initially supported the library, stating that the law allows for candidate forums and questionnaires. However, the dispute highlights the delicate balance libraries must maintain in a politically charged environment. The Goffstown library staff created most of the questions themselves after receiving limited public input. Several GOP candidates criticized the questionnaire, calling it a "political hack job. " The case is ongoing, and the DOJ is still reviewing the formal complaint filed by the Republican candidates.