NH House Democrats announce leadership team, Republicans withhold their own

Following New Hampshire House leadership elections, House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson has announced her core leadership team for the upcoming legislative session. Touting over a century of combined legislative experience, the Democratic team brings together a coalition of seasoned lawmakers who say they are looking to protect Granite Staters from the most extreme elements of Republicans’ legislative agenda.

Meanwhile, New Hampshire House Republicans have yet to announce their leadership team, an unusual move that breaks with precedent.

The newly elected House speaker typically announces majority and minority leaders from the floor of the House immediately after being elected, and leaders are then immediately listed in the House Journal following the Speaker’s election announcement.

In the last term, House Speaker Sherman Packard put his leadership team announcement in that week’s calendar, including the majority and minority leaders. This year, Packard did not make that announcement, and no announcement has since been made since his election last Wednesday.

Rumors persist that Republican House Leader Rep. Jason Osborne may have been removed as majority leader as part of a deal with a potential challenger, Rep. Kim Rice. Or that Rice will be named to leadership herself, in exchange for dropping a last-minute challenge to Packard.

House Democrats leadership team is as follows:

Rep. Alexis Simpson (D-Exeter) — House Democratic Leader

With six years of legislative experience, former Deputy Leader Rep. Alexis Simpson has a background in sustainable agriculture policy and ministry. As the caucus leader, she is excited to support her team’s work on housing affordability, environmental protection, and individual rights.

“My family motivates me,” said Simpson. “I want a better world for them, including access to healthy food and healthcare when they need it.” Her go-to song for motivation before sessions? “Times Like These” by the Foo Fighters.

Rep. Laura Telerski (D-Nashua) — Deputy House Democratic Leader

A six-year House member, Rep. Laura Telerski has a history of public service as a substitute teacher and election official. She previously served as chair of the Democratic Campaign Victory Committee, the House’s campaign arm. Her legislative priorities focus on food access, with bills aimed at ensuring children in low-income families can participate in school meal programs.

“Every child in New Hampshire should be able to learn without the distraction of being hungry,” said Telerski. She credits her legislative colleagues and the progress they make for keeping her motivated. Her hype song? “Freedom” by George Michael.

Rep. Matt Wilhelm (D-Manchester) — Democratic Caucus Chair

Rep. Matt Wilhelm, former House leader, is also a six-year legislator. He is passionate about strengthening democracy through independent redistricting. Before joining the House, Wilhelm worked in the music industry, helping artists create positive social and environmental impacts.

“I stay motivated when I think about my kids, Ben and Rosie, and what we can do to ensure a stronger future for them,” said Wilhelm. His favorite pre-session anthem is “The Grid Generation” by Cory Wong.

Rep. Karen Ebel (D-New London) — Democratic Leader Pro Tempore

With 12 years in the House, Rep. Karen Ebel continues her advocacy for environmental sustainability. Her recent legislation promotes solid waste diversion through recycling initiatives and grant programs.

“I’m committed to helping Granite Staters live their best lives, focusing on clean water, air, and land,” said Ebel. Unlike others, she prefers calm reflection over a pump-up song before sessions.

Rep. Lucy Weber (D-Walpole) — Democratic Floor Leader

Rep. Lucy Weber has served in the House for 18 years, with a focus on advancing good legislation and blocking harmful policies. Previously an attorney and educator, she brings a wealth of experience to her role.

“For a lifelong learner, there’s no better place to grow than the legislature,” said Weber. Her motivational tune? “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees.

Rep. Nicholas Germana (D-Keene) — Deputy Democratic Floor Leader

A two-year House member and history professor, Rep. Nicholas Germana is championing landfill legislation to address environmental concerns. Germana said he remains motivated by building public faith in government.

His favorite song before sessions? “Rockin’ in the Free World” by Neil Young.

Rep. Mary Jane Wallner (D-Concord) — Senior Democratic Advisor

The most experienced member of the team, Rep. Mary Jane Wallner, has served for 44 years. Her legislative priorities include protecting foster children’s social security funds and crafting a state budget that meets residents’ needs.

Wallner said her love for shaping state policy and improving children’s lives drives her continued service. Her pump-up anthem is “We Will Rock You” by Queen.

Rep. Brian Sullivan (D-Grantham) — Senior Democratic Advisor

With seven years in the House, Rep. Brian Sullivan focuses on safety standards for public sector employees. A retired education advocate, he looks forward to returning Democrats to the House majority.

His pre-session favorite? “25 or 6 to 4” by Chicago.

Rep. Dave Luneau (D-Hopkinton) — Democratic Advisor

A decade-long legislator, Rep. Dave Luneau is committed to equitable school funding based on student outcomes. Before his legislative career, he co-founded a tech company.

“The state’s current school funding scheme isn’t fair to students or taxpayers,” said Luneau. His motivational song is “Once in a Lifetime” by Talking Heads.

Rep. Jaci Grote (D-Rye) — Democratic Advisor

Rep. Jaci Grote, a six-year House member and former global sales executive, has filed legislation to expand healthcare availability and workforce capacity.

Grote credits the residents of Rye and Greenland as her inspiration. Her go-to song? “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge.