Linda Ryan

Linda Ryan was born in Norfolk, Virginia. Ryan earned a B.A. from The College of Saint Rose in 1979 and an M.Ed. from Rivier University in 1999. Before retiring, Ryan's career experience included working as a public school teacher, a track and field coach in middle school and high school, and a case worker. She has served as a Nashua city conservation commissioner, a Nashua child care commissioner, and United Way volunteer.[1][2]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Seeking third term as Representative in NH House District 4, Ward 2 Nashua.

I am a moderate Dem., served on Resources, Recreation and Development Committee, substituting on many other committees, as needed. Also Executive Committee member for Hillsborough County, worked on County budget 2025 and 2026.

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?

Public tax dollars belong in public schools. As a retired educator, I recognize the problems that are arising as the state diverts tax dollars to private institutions and homes. As a pragmatist, I fully realize there are problems within the system, but underfunding, and downshifting costs to towns will not solve them.NH is a beautiful state, with many natural resources. In my committee, we work to protect these resources, while striking a balance with community needs. I have been involved in researching recreational use of off road vehicles, their impact on neighbors and nature, while taking into consideration the tourism dollars they bring to NH. Clean water and permanent plastics contamination is a main concern of mine and I will continue to fight to protect our water.

The timber industry is a vital part of our economy, and RRD works them to strike a balance with protections and community growth.Property taxes are a burden to many and changes need to be made to the system. However, income tax is not the answer. I am one of four Democrats who voted with Republicans to not it forth an income tax. This is direct example of how I think as an individual, listen to my constituents and vote accordingly.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Public Education- funding, standards, and well qualified staff. Local control is also a primary concern. Of late, the State has brought forth legislation that directly impedes local control. One size does not fit all- legislation that may benefit small towns is not often suitable for cities. Issues such as housing, homelessness, tax rates, services and zoning best be left to individual communities, without state overreach.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Core responsibilities include responding to constituent concerns, show up and do the work with integrity.

What legacy would you like to leave?

That I worked diligently and did my best.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I have always had childcare, house sitting and pet care jobs from a young age.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I am a first generation college grad- achieving that was a struggle.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Funding infrastructure, obtainable housing and healthcare.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes- but compromise does not mean win or lose.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

NEA, AFT, Sierra Club, AFL-CIO

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

JFK assassination. We lived on a Navy base, it was a frightening time.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a retired public school educator actively involved in my community. I believe public dollars belong only in public schools. I have worked with legislators to clarify their ideas of the role and function of public schools and educators to prevent harmful legislation such as parental rights and book banning bills. I adamantly support the feeding of children in schools. My work on the Resources, Recreation and Development Committee has resulted in strides for clean water awareness and understandings of consequences of PFA’s and Cyanobacteria in our waters. I have a strong understanding of the homelessness of New Hampshire thru volunteerism and will continue to support communities with this difficult issue. I represent members of my Ward of both parties, and listen to all sides before I make decisions.

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?

Clean water is not a privilege but a right. St. Gobain’s and all other polluters needs to be held permanently responsible for all present and future damage caused to our water, land and citizens.Public Education is vitally important for every community to thrive. I will continue to fight damaging efforts of legislation and underfunding that work to erode and dismantle our public schools. Teachers must continue to be certified and knowledgeable in all subject areas. Officials who make education laws and policy must be experienced in education practices and implementation to ensure positive growth and progress in our young people.Workers rights are everyone’s rights. A healthy work force builds thriving communities, improves public safety and strengthens our citizenry as a whole. Affordable child care, health care, mental health services, veteran’s support, housing and food security all stem from a strong workforce. We need to continue efforts to raise the minimum wage and secure safe, equitable employment for everyone.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Education, Health and Science.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to people who work hard, admit mistakes and are willing to change. President Carter is the first campaign I volunteered for, and I respect him.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Voice Of Reason by Ronn Owens causes me to think and reconsider. This is partly why I identify as a moderate democrat.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty and transparency are very important to me. Too many times this last session have elected officials lied about their place of residence, yet continued to vote. I have no problem respectfully disagreeing with constituents, and will not falsely represent myself to settle conflicting views. Thru my work with Granite Angels, I continue to learn how to have difficult conversations and be able to hear opposing views. I have worked towards compromise with peers with much success.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I listen, ask questions and consider all sides. I have a diverse group of friends, and we often engage in conversations that expose me to beliefs that allow me to examine my own pisitions.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

My core responsibilities include considering the diverse population I represent, and being willing to answer to the public why I voted a certain way.

What legacy would you like to leave?

That I am fair and just. Many former students have told me this.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

In first grade, President Kennedy was assassinated. I remember teachers crying, and we were sent home, walking from school. A neighbor took kids in because my parents were working.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first paid position involved caring for other people’s children for 50 cents an hour.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I seriously have so many to choose from!! I am an avid reader if many genres, and frequently peruse the many little free libraries our town has to offer. Friends know any adventure includes stopping in a bookstore.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

I love being me and wouldn’t change it for the world.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

My earlier life was very difficult. I am proud of the life I have built as an adult- raising 3 sons with my husband Stephen, establishing myself in this community professionally as a mental health worker for twenty years, then obtaining my Master’s In Education at age forty to continue as a public educator. Changing careers while working and attending grad school was quite the challenge!

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

New Hampshire’s challenges will include maintaining our pristine vacationlands while addressing diverse population growth and the extenuating issues- housing, safety, health, pollution. Mental health issues need to be addressed as a matter of public safety and support to law enforcement is vital for healthy communities.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

No. Each individual brings their experiences to the position, creating the unique structure of NH government.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Absolutely!!! I have had the experience to broaden my knowledge and beliefs by engaging in conversations with many different legislators. I am nit afraid to ask questions and examine my own positions. I wish we did not sit as a divided House.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

No

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?

There are so many, just as there are many, many different individuals in our House.

Tell us your favorite joke.

I laugh at silly knock knock jokes.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

Only in rare circumstances.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

I have not introduced any bills. There are so many being produced, addressing many topics that I support.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

AFT, NEA, Mom’s against gun violence. Several more are pending.

What committees interest you?

I am presently serving on Recreation, Resources and Development. Education Committee would also interest me.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

There is absolutely no reason for the public to be denied access as to how their dollars are being spent, and sources of income to the State.

Would a state ballot initiative process be good or bad for your state?

No. It would be lengthy and costly, and not address issues in a timely manner.

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