Background
Brian Cole was born in Concord, New Hampshire, and lives in Manchester. Cole graduated from Raymond High School in 1990. He earned an associate degree in accounting and a bachelor's degree in economics and finance from Southern New Hampshire University in 1995. His career experience includes working as a small business owner and the CEO of JC International, a wholesale tool company.[1][2]
Cole has served on the Business Finance Authority Board, the Family Medical Leave Review Board, the NH Canadian Trade Council, the State Park Advisory Council, and the Speaker’s Steering Committee, as well as on the Manchester Republican Committee as vice chair, chair, and chair emeritus.[3]
- Associates:
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Bachelor's:
- Southern New Hampshire University, 1995
Campaign money
- Raised
- $486K
- From individuals
- $38K
- From PACs & party
- $1K
- Own money
- —
FEC filings through August 19, 2026.
View on FEC.gov(opens in new tab)Campaign themes
Brian Cole did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2026 Candidate Connection survey.
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Campaign websiteCole's campaign website stated the following:Energy & Infrastructure Affordability has to come first. I am focused on lowering energy costs for New Hampshire families and businesses by advancing next generation nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors, and pushing to build micro nuclear facilities near Seabrook and in the North Country. Building a Stronger, More Affordable Energy Future for NHWe need to Fix New Hampshire’s Energy Costs! New Hampshire families and businesses are paying some of the highest electricity rates in the country, and it is time for real action, not more talk. My goal is simple lower costs, ensure reliable power, and make New Hampshire a leader in the future of energy.We are now seeing real momentum. The Governor is pushing this effort forward, and with the help of my colleagues in the State House, we have a serious, actionable plan in the works to finally address our energy challenges head on.I have already been doing the groundwork. I traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet directly with the U.S. Department of Energy to push for real steps that will move energy projects forward here in New Hampshire. We cannot afford to sit back while costs continue to rise on hardworking families.At the same time, I am building strong partnerships with private industry leaders. I have met with Google and NextEra Energy, the company that owns Seabrook Station, to discuss expanding nuclear energy right here in our state. Real progress happens when government and the private sector work together to drive innovation, increase competition, and lower costs.At the center of this plan is investing in advanced nuclear technology, especially Small Modular Reactors. These reactors are smaller, safer, and more flexible than traditional plants, and they can be deployed where they are needed most. I am proposing a micro nuclear facility near Seabrook and another in the North Country. These projects will deliver reliable, clean energy, create good paying jobs, and position New Hampshire to export power across the region.When I get to Congress, I will also take on the federal barriers that are driving up costs. One of my top priorities will be pushing for a waiver to the Jones Act, which restricts how energy resources are transported between U.S. ports. Fixing this will help bring more affordable energy into New Hampshire and provide real relief to families and businesses.This is about results. With the Governor engaged, a plan moving forward in the State House, and strong partnerships in place, we are no longer just talking about solutions we are building them. New Hampshire deserves leadership that takes action and gets things done.National Security & Border Protection I will fight to protect New Hampshire by supporting strong border security and enforcing our immigration laws. What happens at our nation’s borders impacts our communities, our jobs, and our safety right here at home. We need a system that is lawful, controlled, and puts American workers first.Addressing Border Challenges and Drug TraffickingNorthern Border to MassachusettsI’ve been to New Hampshire’s northern border, and what I saw should concern everyone. Nearly 58 miles of rugged, heavily wooded terrain, much of it without cell service, and at times just one officer responsible for patrolling it all. That means limited communication, delayed response, and real gaps in security. Programs like the Northern Border Alliance help, but the reality is we are still under-resourced.At the same time, dangerous drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine continue to flow into our state from distribution hubs in Lowell and Lawrence, Massachusetts. Law enforcement is making arrests and seizures, but the volume hasn’t slowed. This is driving overdoses, hurting families, and putting real pressure on our communities.I’ve already taken action. I am the only candidate in this race who voted to ban sanctuary cities in New Hampshire because I believe in enforcing the law and backing our officers.In Congress, I will fight for more resources, better communication infrastructure, and stronger coordination to secure both our northern border and stop the flow of drugs from the south. New Hampshire deserves better, and I’m going to make sure we get it.Economic Growth As a small business owner, I’ve lived the challenges New Hampshire businesses face every day. Rising costs, overregulation, and government red tape are holding us back. I will fight to cut through that, lower the burden on our businesses, and create a pro-growth environment where small and mid-sized companies can expaHealthy Aging, Stronger EconomyChanging Healthcare Starts with Fixing the FDAOur healthcare system is built to treat disease after it happens, not to stop it before it starts. That approach is failing families, driving up costs, and leaving millions of Americans managing conditions that could have been prevented. If we are serious about changing healthcare, we have to start by modernizing the system that controls how innovation reaches patients, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Right now, the FDA does not recognize aging as a condition that can be treated. That means researchers are forced to chase individual diseases like cancer, heart disease, or Alzheimer’s one at a time, instead of targeting the root cause that drives them all. It slows innovation, limits investment, and keeps life-changing therapies out of reach for the people who need them most.I believe it is time to fundamentally change the way we look at healthcare. We should be focused on prevention, not just treatment. By allowing clinical trials to target aging itself and creating clear FDA pathways for longevity and regenerative therapies, we can unlock a new era of medicine that helps people stay healthier longer, not just live longer while sick.Modernizing the FDA will also strengthen America’s leadership in biotechnology and Healthcare. Other countries are already investing heavily in this space, and we cannot afford to fall behind. By creating a regulatory environment that supports innovation while maintaining strong safety standards, we can attract investment, create jobs, and ensure that the next generation of medical breakthroughs happens here in the United States and not China.This is about more than just better health. It is about affordability. Today, healthcare spending is one of the largest burdens on our economy, with the majority tied to chronic, age-related diseases. If we address the root causes earlier, we can reduce hospitalizations, cut long-term care costs, and ease the financial strain on families and taxpayers.This is how we change healthcare. We stop reacting and start preventing. We remove outdated barriers and embrace innovation. And we build a system that delivers better outcomes, lower costs, and a healthier future for every American.Fiscal ResponsibilityI believe our country cannot thrive under endless debt. I would work to push for a balanced federal budget by advocating for spending cuts, eliminating wasteful programs, and implementing reforms that prioritize responsible fiscal management. Reduce the national debt, protect essential programs like Social Security.Building a Stronger Future, Responsible Fiscal LeadershipAchieve Responsible Fiscal ManagementWashington has a spending problem, and it is hitting families right here in New Hampshire. Today, our national debt has surged past $30 trillion, and the federal government continues to run annual deficits in the trillions. We are spending far more than we bring in, and that imbalance is fueling inflation, driving up interest rates, and making everyday life more expensive for hardworking Americans.I believe we cannot keep kicking the can down the road. If we stay on this path, interest payments alone will soon rival what we spend on national defense, crowding out priorities and limiting our ability to invest in the future. That is not sustainable, and it is not fair to the next generation.That is why I will fight for real structural reform. I support implementing zero-based budgeting, where every federal program must justify its existence instead of automatically receiving increases year after year. I will also push for a Balanced Budget Amendment to force Washington to live within its means, just like families and small businesses do every day.At the same time, fiscal responsibility does not mean turning our backs on the commitments we have made. I am committed to protecting programs like Social Security Administration, which millions of Americans rely on after a lifetime of work. These are promises that must be honored, and we can protect them by cutting waste, eliminating duplication, and reforming how government spends, not by putting seniors at risk.Responsible budgeting is about priorities. It is about cutting what does not work, strengthening what does, and making sure every taxpayer dollar is used wisely. By reducing wasteful spending, returning more control to the states, and restoring discipline in Washington, we can lower inflation, stabilize our economy, and put our country back on a sustainable path.We owe it to the next generation to get this right.Lowering Insurance CostsI am working to reduce skyrocketing insurance premiums caused by t third-party litigation financing. This practice allows outside investors to fund lawsuits for profit, driving up costs for local businesses and nonprofits. I plan to introduce legislation requiring transparency in these cases to protect New Hampshire.Protecting NH, Securing Our Courts, Defending Our NationI authored HB 733 in New Hampshire, the Third Party Litigation Funding Transparency Act, to bring accountability and full disclosure to outside investors who bankroll lawsuits for profit. This legislation protects families, small businesses, and nonprofits from skyrocketing insurance costs and unfair legal practices. This is more than a financial issue. Allowing outside entities, including foreign investors, to influence our courts poses a serious national security risk.When I am elected to Congress, I will take this fight to Washington. I will push for a national law that requires third party litigation funders to fully disclose their involvement, this ensures transparency for everyone involved in a case.My goal is clear. I want to lower insurance premiums, protect small businesses and nonprofits, and restore fairness to our civil justice system. By starting here in New Hampshire along with the 20 other states who have already passed this law we can use this model nationally, we can hold big money out of our courts, protect our legal system from foreign influence, and give every American a fair shot.Upholding Constitutional RightsI am committed to defending our Second Amendment rights and protecting the freedom of law-abiding Americans to keep and bear arms. In Congress, I will stand firm against any attempt to weaken this fundamental liberty and will work to ensure that every citizen’s right to self-defense and personal safety.Standing Strong for the Second AmendmentI will vigorously defend the Second Amendment in Congress. I am committed to protecting the rights of all law-abiding Americans to keep and bear arms, whether for self-defense, sport, or hunting. Defending the Second AmendmentAs your representative, I have sponsored and supported legislation to expand and clarify responsible firearm use. Bills like HB 1024 and HB 211 ensure that New Hampshire hunters can legally use qualifying air rifles to pursue game safely and responsibly. These measures:Allow air rifles of sufficient caliber and power for hunting, giving outdoorsmen and sportsmen more freedom while maintaining safety. Clarify legal definitions of air rifles to avoid confusion and ensure lawful use. Establish programs under the New Hampshire Fish & Game Commission to regulate air-rifle hunting responsibly. In Congress, I will stand unwaveringly against any attempt to weaken our fundamental liberties. I will fight to ensure that every citizen can protect themselves, their families, and their property, while preserving New Hampshire’s proud traditions of hunting, sport shooting, and personal freedom.With your support, I will be a champion for the Second Amendment and for the rights of every Granite Stater.Supporting Veterans and Military FamiliesSupporting our veterans and military families should never be an afterthought, it must be a top priority. I am committed to ensuring they receive the support, recognition, and resources they have earned through their service. That means guaranteeing access to quality healthcare, protecting education benefits.Standing Up for New Hampshire Veterans & Military FamiliesStrengthening Access to Healthcare for Granite State VeteransNew Hampshire veterans deserve timely, high-quality medical care, including mental health and rehabilitation services. Expanding VA resources across the state, especially in rural areas like Coös and Grafton counties, ensures veterans don’t have to travel long distances for the care they’ve earned. Expanding Education and Job Opportunities in New HampshireVeterans in New Hampshire should have strong pathways into civilian careers. Supporting programs that connect veterans to local businesses, apprenticeships, and educational institutions such as UNH, SNHU, and community colleges helps them succeed. Military spouses also need access to job opportunities and childcare support across the state.Supporting Financial Security and Family StabilityMilitary families in New Hampshire make sacrifices for the country. Strengthening housing assistance and veteran-focused financial counseling ensures families in cities like Manchester, Portsmouth, and rural communities can thrive while their loved ones serve. Reliable support networks recognize the unique challenges of New Hampshire’s veterans and military families. — Brian Cole's campaign website (September 4, 2026)Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
Brian Cole did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2024 Candidate Connection survey.
Brian Cole did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2023 Candidate Connection survey.
Brian Cole did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2022 Candidate Connection survey.
Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
I bought my home in Manchester in 1998 and have lived in Ward 7 ever since. I am currently 49 years old. Born and raised in New Hampshire, with NH values. I Graduated from Southern New Hampshire University in 1995 with a B.S. in Economics and Finance, and an A.S. in Accounting. I own and operate a local business here in the city. I employ local people, and support the local economy. I have over 25 years business experience. I will work hard for you and your children to make sure there is a brighter tomorrow for all.
Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?
KIDS NEED TO RETURN TO SCHOOLWILL VOTE AGAINST A 250 MILLION BOND FOR A NEW SCHOOLWILL WORK HARD TO GET THE SCHOOL DISTRICT BACK ON TRACK
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
I believe the teachers should have a contract and I will work hard to find common ground to get the task accomplished within the boundaries of the fiscal budget. I will use my background and experience to find the leakages in the budget and make better use of the enormous 183 million dollar yearly budget the school system has. I believe in order to “turn around” this school district a new strategic plan will have to be installed. It will have to re-evaluate why and how this school system is failing our children. The superintendent and the school board will then need to provide a clear vision and purpose for our district. This is essential if we are going to engage the principals and faculty to graduate more students who are prepared for life and work. At the end of the day we must remember to do what's best for the students, that is our primary goal and purpose. I do not believe the School Board should be a taxing authority. I can't imagine opening my TAX BILL twice a year from the city then getting another TAX BILL twice a year from the School Board. I will vote against the School Board becoming a tax authority. I will also vote against a 250 million dollar bond to build a new school, this is simply too large a tax burden for our residents. Building a new school isn't going to change the fact that our school district is ranked at the bottom of the state for education. WWW.BRIANDCOLE.COM or email BCOLE794@GMAIL.COM
Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?
My father, he had a very successful life.
Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?
no
What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?
Integrity, honesty, transparency, and good communication
What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?
The ability to step back from a problem and come up with solutions that other cant see.
What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?
To put the kids and the school district ahead of their own agenda and do what's right for the children.
What legacy would you like to leave?
I would like to see the school district back in the top 100 for the state in 3 years.
What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?
When the Space shuttle tragedy occurred. I was in eighth grade.
What was your very first job? How long did you have it?
14 years old, was a runner at an auction house. Made $25.00 a night, that was big bucks for a kid :)
What is your favorite book? Why?
Celestine Prophecy, was an interesting quick read. Fascinated with the Mayan culture and how it just vanished.
If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?
James T. Kirk
What was the last song that got stuck in your head?
Dua Lipa ... We're Good
What is something that has been a struggle in your life?
Everyone has their struggles. That is what makes you the person you are. I have them like everyone else, and I deal with them and overcome them.
What is the primary job of a school board member in your view?
To give the proper direction for the school district. The need a plan, and right now they don't have one
Who are your constituents?
All walks of life, broad age range, and many different races. A true melting pot.
How would you support the diverse needs of your district’s students, faculty, staff, and community?
I would create a strategic plan that would give the school district a sense of purpose and direction.
How will you build relationships with members of the broader community? Which groups, organizations, stakeholders will you specifically target?
I walk the entire ward, and talk to as many people as I can. I met with the MEA Manchester Education Association, who just recently endorsed me, and laid out a broad sense of the plan. I will also visit each school and meet with the principals, and tour each facility.
Do you believe it is important to intentionally recruit with the aim of diversifying the district’s faculty, staff, and administration? If so, what would be your policy to achieve this?
It's happened naturally. The staff has evolved over the years to compliment the diversity in the city.
What issues get in the way of quality education? How would you address these obstacles?
Lack of direction and goals.
What constitutes good teaching? How will you measure this? How will you support advanced teaching approaches?
The ability of the principal to have the atonomy in their school to make decisions. They need to be freed up to walk the halls and sit in classrooms and help their staff. Remember your principals are supposed to the the star teachers, but ineffective if your locked down in an office all day doing paperwork.
In what areas would you like to expand curriculum? For example, do you see a need for advanced technical training or apprenticeships? What sort of innovative programming would you advance if given the opportunity?
English, Math, Reading, Writing, Language Skills. Need to get back to the core of education.
What strategies or plans would you advance to ensure the schools are properly funded?
I have no control over the budget size. I will have some control on how it is spent. I will also approach the state for additional funding.
What principles drive your policies for safety in schools?
I listen to the experts and take their advice.
What role do you imagine technology playing in (and outside) the classroom in the future? How would you prepare the district for this?
We are already are using digital equipment, and each student is provided with a computer.
Tell us your favorite joke.
Completely inappropriate, so no.
What are your views on how to address schooling during pandemic times?
I think kids should go back to school. There is a flu outbreak every year, granted this was a serious one, but there will be a new one every year. Society simply can not continue to function the way we did in 2020. Parents have a lot of different views on the subject, and ultimately it should be up to them to decide if their child should wear a mask or not. I do think the teachers should be mandated to get the vaccine just like every other city department.
What will you do to build a relationship with parents in the district? What plans do you have to be inclusive of parental involvement?
That will be part of the strategic plan
Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
Life long resident of NH. Owner of JC International a wholesale distribution company. Job creator for NH workers. AS Accounting, BS Economics and Finance Southern New Hampshire University.
Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?
Create and support legislation for renewable energyNo new taxes, work within the current budgetFind ways for optimum use of school funds
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
Renewable Energy, environmental impact.
Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?
Ronald Reagan, the president that was truly respected.
Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?
N/A
What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?
Honesty
What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?
Independent thinker
What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?
The ability to separate truth from fiction. Use ones own mind to make a decision, not just be someone who tows the line.
What legacy would you like to leave?
One that leaves the office making NH better than when I joined
What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?
Challenger explosion, 8th grade.
What was your very first job? How long did you have it?
Night Patrolman, Bear Brook State Park, was my first job out of high school. Worked there one season.
What is your favorite book? Why?
Celestine Prophecy, just found it and interesting spin on the ruins in Peru.
If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?
Capt Kirk
What was the last song that got stuck in your head?
Alicia Keys, Underdog
What is something that has been a struggle in your life?
Fought through a recession and Covid 19 and survived and prospered.
Every state besides Nebraska has two legislative chambers. What do you consider the most important differences between the legislative chambers in your state?
NH House is the largest state legislative body in the world. It truly represents the people.
Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?
No
What do you perceive to be your state’s greatest challenges over the next decade?
Climate Change
What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature?
Bipartisanship
Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.
Yes, You have to find common ground and use your own wisdom to vote on items. Do whats best for the people, not necessarily along party lines.
What process do you favor for redistricting?
Population
If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?
Finance, environmental
If you are a current legislator, what appealed to you about your current committees?
N/A
If you are not currently a member of your party’s leadership in the legislature, would you be interested in joining the leadership? If so, in what role?
I have to learn the ropes first before making that decision
Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?
Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?
Yes, I am hoping this is a stepping stone to a political career
Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?
When we think of homeless people, we don't consider that children are homeless too. It is a sad truth that we need to change.
On the 2026 ballot
Links
Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026 and FEC filings.
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