Matthew McLaughlin

Matthew McLaughlin was born in Manchester, New Hampshire. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1981 to 1989. McLaughlin earned a bachelor's degree from the United States Naval Academy in 1981. His career experience includes working as a Navy pilot and commercial pilot.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in Bedford and I am the youngest of 10 children. I attended college at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. After graduation I attended navy flight school in Pensacola, FL. I earned my wings of gold and became qualified as a tactical jet pilot flying the A-7 Corsair and did three deployments on board the USS Nimitz.

After leaving the navy I became a commercial airline pilot for 33 years. I have been married for 40 years, I have three children and five grandchildren.

I am running for state senate because I am worried about the direction of our country and our state. The main issues I feel that need to be addressed are a women's right to chose, renewable energy, climate change, protection of our drinking water and our environment, and proper funding of our public schools.

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?

I will protect a women's right to choose.I will work to end the Education Freedom Accounts and return public money to public schools.I will work to increase renewable energy and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Women's right to choose, Education, Climate Change, Environment, Reducing local property taxes.

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

John McCain is a great example. Both as a navy pilot, and a true war hero who was so loyal to his fellow POW's, and as an independent minded politician.

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

Honesty and integrity.

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

The most influential event was anything to do with the space program, especially the first moon landing in 1969.

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

Attack Pilot, US Navy. 8 Years

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

Respect, and a positive working environment

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

Women's right to choose, Education, Climate Change

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

Yes

What process do you favor for redistricting?

Independent commission

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

Energy, Education, Transportation

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

No, but after a predetermined amount of time, the Governor should need approval to continue to exercise emergency power.

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

Yes