Lorrie Carey

Lorrie Carey was born in Concord, New Hampshire. She attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, obtaining a bachelor's degree in 1985 and a master's degree in 1987. Her professional experience includes owning a small business, working in nonprofit management, and as a small business owner.[1][2]

Carey has been involved with Business & Professional Women (Franklin, NH), the Zonta International (Concord, NH), the Greater Capital Area Chamber of Commerce (Concord, NH), the General Federation of Women's Clubs (Concord, NH), the New Hampshire School Boards Association, the New Hampshire Municipal Association, the Concord City Auditorium, the Concord Community Concert Association, Kimball Jenkins Inc., the UNH Cooperative Extension Advisory Board, the Penacook NH Historical Society, and the Town of Boscawen (Planning, OHD, Agriculture, Selectboard).[2]

Lorrie Carey has not yet completed [the profile publisher]'s 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

If you are Lorrie Carey, click here to fill out [the profile publisher]'s 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

Who fills out the candidate survey?

Any candidate running for elected office, at any level, can complete [the profile publisher]'s Candidate Survey. Completing the survey will update the candidate's [the profile publisher] profile, letting voters know who they are and what they stand for.  More than 33,000 candidates have taken [the profile publisher]'s candidate survey since we launched it in 2015. Learn more about the survey here.

Help improve [the profile publisher] - send us candidate contact info.

Lorrie Carey did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2024 Candidate Connection survey.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a New Hampshire native and small business owner running for Merrimack 1 which serves my hometown of Boscawen, NH. As a wife and mother of four children, I have devoted years of volunteer service to education serving on the boards of public, private, charter schools and PTAs. I understand local government through my service on Planning Board, Economic Development, Conservation, Police Commission, Water Commission, Hazard Mitigation, Parks and Recreation, as well as serving on the Selectboard. I served on the Advisory Board for UNH Cooperative Extension at the County level and was Clerk for the Committee on State and Federal Relations & Veterans Affairs in the NH House of Representatives when serving as a State Representative. The Speaker of the NH House appointed me to serve on the Commission to Study Sexual Abuse Prevention Education in K-12. As a businessperson and Chamber of Commerce member, I represented NH at the White House Conference on Small Business. My broad experience in public service has given me a unique skill set to serve my community and I look forward to using those skills to serve in the NH Legislature.

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?

Economic Development to broaden the tax base and provide tax relief to working familiesStrengthen Public Education by fully funding public education in all communitiesPlan for adequate services for an aging population

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about public policy surrounding the funding of education and the providing of health care to working families. These are areas where policy needs to be clarified and expanded. NH has battled for years over the definition of what an adequate education is and what it costs. The solution is not a flat grant or a one-size-fits-all solution but a response that differs by community and need. The answer is neither simple nor equal, but a sliding scale based upon community need so all children receive an equivalent education.

The same is true of health care. In a service based economy, many working families do not have health care. In order to ensure a healthy, educated workforce, access to health care, family leave and child care are necessary to grow the economy and expand the tax base in NH.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a New Hampshire native and small business owner running for the floterial district of Merrimack 26 which serves Loudon, Canterbury, Northfield, Boscawen and Franklin- Ward 3. As a wife and mother of four children, I have devoted years of volunteer service to education serving on the boards of public, private and charter schools. I understands local government through service on Planning Board, Conservation, Police Commission, Water Commission, Hazard Mitigation, Parks and Recreation, as well as being on the Board of Selectmen. I serves on the Advisory Board for UNH Cooperative Extension at the County level and has been Clerk for the Committee on State and Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs in the NH House of Representatives. I was appointed by the Speaker of the NH House to serve on the Commission to Study Sexual Abuse Prevention Education in K-12. As a businessperson and Chamber of Commerce member, I represented NH at the White House Conference on Small Business. I plan to return to the NH House to focus on issues such as economic development to broaden our tax base, strengthening education and planning for an aging population. Contact me at https://www.facebook.com/LorrieCareyForNHHouse

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?

Focus on Economic Development to broaden the tax base and provide tax relief to working familiesStrengthen Public Education by fully funding public education in all communitiesPlan for adequate services for an aging population

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about public policy surrounding the funding of education and the providing of health care to working families. These are areas where policy needs to be clarified and expanded. NH has battled for years over the definition of what an adequate education is and what it costs. The solution is not a flat grant or a one-size-fits-all solution but a response that differs by community and need. The answer is neither simple nor equal, but a sliding scale based upon community need so all children receive an equivalent education.

The same is true of health care. In a service based economy, many working families do not have health care. In order to ensure a healthy, educated workforce, access to health care, family leave and child care are necessary to grow the economy and expand the tax base in NH.

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

Although there are many people in the community and in public service who I look up to for a variety of reasons on a variety of issues, the best adult example throughout my life has been my grandmother, who will turn 100 years old this year. She has always worked hard. She has seen loss, tragedy and success. Throughout it all, she was kind and welcoming to all people; kept a smile on her face and a positive attitude regardless of what happened and lived by the mantra that no matter what happens, "it all comes out in the wash."

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

I don't believe the breadth of my political beliefs is easily identified in one book, essay or film. But I do agree that. "All I really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten."

"It doesn't matter what you say you believe - it only matters what you do."

― Robert Fulghum, All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten

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

The ability to listen to constituents, work with all legislative colleagues and base decisions upon what is in the best interests of constituents are among the most important characteristics for an elective official.

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

I am a successful multi-tasker who has the ability to see projects through to completion. I don't give up and I work hard to achieve success.

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

The core responsibilities for elected office are to listen to the people who elected you and act in their best interests in all votes.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to leave a legacy of collaboration where I have helped bring two opposing parties together in the middle so we are able to move forward together with diverse opinions and productive legislation which benefits the people we serve.

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

The Apollo 11 moon landing was one of the earliest exciting events I can remember, the week of my 6th birthday. It was as if the world stopped to watch Neil Armstrong walk on the moon. O f course, simultaneously, in the background the Vietnam War was raging, along with the Civil Rights Movement, the Women's Movement , the Massacre at Kent State ,the Siege at Wounded Knee followed by Watergate, the gas crisis and the attempted assassination of President Reagan. These were the events of my childhood.

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

My first paying job was working for my grandfather in his small business. That experience of being part of a family run business, working long hours beside family members of all ages to make the family business successful led to my own experience as a small business owner of thirty years, taking over that same business my grandfather had started when my grandfather passed away. I learned to do everything from sweeping the floor, to waiting on customers, to ordering, to paperwork to blaming only myself for my success or failure. These are not subjects taught in school or offered in a book, this is on-the-job training and life lessons.

What is your favorite book? Why?

"Jonathan Livingston Seagull" I like the message about making the most out of your life.

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

Winnie the Pooh is one of my favorite characters. He may not have been the smartest animal, but he always had a down to earth attitude about everything... "You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think."

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

"Light One Candle" - by Peter, Paul & Mary

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

I was born into a nuclear family where it was believed children and women were to be "seen and not heard." Let's just say that provided a little motivation to me to become independent minded and willing to work to ensure all voices of all people, whether they are young or old, should be given the opportunity to be heard.

Every state besides Nebraska has two legislative chambers. What do you consider the most important differences between the legislative chambers in your state?

I believe the two chambers are very different from each other. In the NH House, membership is very eclectic and representative of diverse philosophies and communities of various sizes and locations. The Senate is less colorful in both their debates and ideologies. Some folks have referred to the NH House as the children and the Senate as the adults. I liken it more to the House being made up of members who don't necessarily see limitations and believe in the possibilities their communities send them there to represent. The Senate has the job of representing larger districts with more uniform ideology and must take the ideas for legislation from the House and work on legislation all can concur upon. The debates and Committees of Conference lead to better legislation in the end. Democracy is messy. Spirited debate is important to explain each side of an issue. Both chambers are needed in our state.

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

Absolutely! I liken it to being called out of the classroom to play a game of basketball without knowing the rules of the game or understanding what position you are playing. Previous experience al least gives a legislator a base to work from and an understanding of how the legislation they are proposing might impact the public. Public service must be a balance of knowledge, experience and training. Just showing up is not enough.

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

Our state's greatest challenge is its property based tax structure. Property is finite, so taxes can only go up. Unfortunately, those who own the property do not find their income going up at the same rate as their property taxes do. Our tax structure must be entirely reconfigured to represent 21st Century needs and not our agrarian past.

Secondly, we have to address the issue of affordable healthcare. A healthy population is necessary for a productive workforce, successful families and a vibrant community. Access to affordable healthcare is an issue that affects all ages and all incomes.

Finally, providing safe, community based care for our children and our elders is important for successful families and businesses as well. Productive employees are employees who do not have to worry about the safety or wellbeing of their young children and aging parents. We need to better plan these types of resources in our communities.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature?

Ideally, the relationship between the Governor and the Legislature should be like a long, comfortable marriage. Discuss the issues of importance to each with respect for differing opinions. Agree to disagree at times. Work towards a positive resolution of all issues and find common ground. Never argue or criticize each other in public. End each day with a positive effort to make the next day better. And never go to bed angry at each other. OK, call me idealistic, but you have to have goals.

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

Yes, it is important to build relationships with all of your colleagues so you can understand their perspectives on the issues before the legislature. Those relationships can become support for issues important to the community you represent, too. Each legislator has a background and experience that adds to the story of why they present or support certain legislation. It is important to understand that background and care enough to ask questions and educate oneself about ones colleagues.

What process do you favor for redistricting?

I believe redistricting should be done via an independent commission of community members without strong political affiliations who use data, not politics to redistrict.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Although I know a lot about education, and I have served as a school board member for many years, I would prefer to serve on the State and federal relations and Veteran's Affairs Committee. I feel we can do better in terms of our communication with our Federal Representatives in Washington in the area of policy, grant needs and setting priorities for NH at the national level.

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 hesitate to join a leadership role because I do not want to forfeit the opportunity to be a negotiator. Being part of party leadership can give the public the perception that you are of one mind with only one agenda. I see a greater opportunity in being a collaborator and a negotiator in terms of reaching across the aisle and getting important legislation passed by working collaboratively. We are too divided right now. That division must change.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Dr. Mary Louise Farnum of Boscawen, NH. She was heavily involved in all aspects of her community and one of the first two women legislators to serve in the NH House.

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

I do not rule out any future run for any political office.

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?

One of my favorite stories is of a divorced, single mom who was struggling to find child care help. She was working two jobs and going to school trying to make a better life for herself and her two young children. But she was worried about what to do with her elementary school aged daughter before school started in the morning (when she was at work) and after elementary school ended in the afternoon (while she was still at work). Her mother had helped her in the past, but her mother needed to return to work. In the end, we found a solution and this single mom went on to get a college degree which led to raise at her daytime job which allowed her to quit one of her two jobs. Eventually, she was also able to purchase a home and now both of her children are going to college. Her situation proved to me how childcare is pivotal to educational success, employment success and the economic success of working families and their children.

.survey-result {padding:10px;}

p.survey-question {font-weight:bold;}

p.survey-response {margin-left:10px;}

p.survey-response {white-space: pre-line;}

div.survey-scrollbox { height:400px; overflow:scroll; margin:20px; padding:10px; border:1px solid gray; }

?

Strengthen the NH Economy

?

Invest in Public Education

?

Stop the downshifting of State expenses to local government

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Education

Economic Development

Re-purposing Existing Community Facilities for Current Needs

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

The person I look up to is not famous, nor a household name, she is my 98 year old grandmother, Agnes Marshall, who worked hard her whole life; had empathy for those less fortunate; taught me the value of kindness and a positive attitude as well as the value of trust and collaboration. She volunteered in her community, cared for an extended family, worked full-time outside of the home and helped to run the family business. She inspired all who knew her to be the best they could be and she always celebrated those pinacles each was able to achieve.

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

I would advise to never stop reading all perspectives, because I don't and I have never found any publication that embodies all that I believe.

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

Dedication, responsibility, honesty, the ability to listen, the willingness to collaborate and the ability to be decisive.

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

I am a hard worker who is willing to reach across the aisle to work will all perspectives to get things done without drama.

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

First, listen to and represent your constituents. Second, when your constituents do not have a conclusive opinion on an issue, seek the guidance of experts with knowledge on both sides of the issue. Third, follow through with what you promise to do.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to encourage trust in government by making government more transparent and more accessible to all people.

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

Armstrong walking on the moon is the first historical event that comes to mind when I was about six years old. the space program was very celebrated and there was a lot of hope around all that could be learned from going into space.

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

Other than childcare, my first paying job was in the family business, waiting on customers, sweeping floors, stocking shelves, making product and billing customers. I now own and run that family business.

What happened on your most awkward date?

I had a salad loaded with with blue cheese dressing. Needless to say, I dropped a tomato covered with dressing and it rolled all the way down my white dress- what a mess I made. Ever since, I order my dressing on the side.

What is your favorite holiday? Why?

My favorite holiday is a toss up between April Fool's day and Thanksgiving - April Fool's because of the fun of watching the kids play practical jokes around the house and Thanksgiving for the gathering of family and friends to share what each has together.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I do not have a favorite book, although I loved to read "Velveteen Rabbit" and "Where the Wild Things Are" to my children.

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

I am fine with who I am, but for the sake of argument- Winnie the Pooh.

What is your favorite thing in your home or apartment? Why?

I love my big red barn -the large, aged beams, the tall ceilings, the iron hooks and the sense of history it shares with all who walk through it.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

"I'm Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves.

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

Patience!

Every state besides Nebraska has two legislative chambers. What do you consider the most important differences between the legislative chambers in your state?

In NH, the Senate often plays the role of the "adult" when it comes to legislative issues- less creative, more practical. Whereas, the House can be more extreme and creative in its legislation (with the exception of the issue of gambling). Both roles are needed.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of a unicameral state legislature, in your opinion?

The drawback of having on legislative body versus two would be having only one body to decide all legislative issues. There is some benefit to discussion in Committee to reach the compromises that a bicameral body must meet to pass legislation. Conversely, I suppose that one body could be smaller than NH's 424. I am not convinced the representation would be better.

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

I do believe experience in government is beneficial. Well intentioned folks are presenting legislation with no understanding of the cost or impact because they do not understand how local government, county government or public schools function. When well intentioned, but ill informed legislation is passed, the tax payers bear the consequences.

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

Our state's greatest challenge is providing services to an aging population while balancing the needs of those with mental health and drug issues. Both populations need local services which are difficult to provide in a rural state with limited transportation services.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature?

I believe a collaborative and honest relationship is the best relationship between a governor and the Legislature. Each should share their goals and decide what they can work on together- the goals should not be party goals but constituent goals.

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

I believe that all relationships are valuable. The old adage, "keep your friends close and your enemies closer," could never be more true than in politics. Even enemies can find common ground and still disagree on everything else.

What process do you favor for redistricting?

I believe an independent, nonpartisan Commission should be used for redistricting.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

I believe the State and Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs Committee for NH could be much more active in the Federal Relations area by opening up a regular conversation with Congressional representatives on Federal impacts on NH so there is feeback from the State going back to the Federal government.

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 am not a member of Party Leadership, but if I were to have a role, it would be as a mediator.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Mary Jane Wallner is the best example I know of a NH legislator who is well informed, well spoken and respectful.

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

I always leave open the option of running for other offices.

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 stories people tell. One of my favorites was the story of a veteran who wanted to start a home health aid business during the recession, but wanted to continue to collect unemployment while he started his business. The Governor has implemented a program to do just that, but this Veteran was having trouble with all of the paperwork. I was able to connect him with the Commissioner of Labor's office, he completed his paperwork to qualify for the program and started his own business helping others. Home health aids are a real need. Ensuring veterans have jobs is a solid goal. With this small business, both goals were achieved.