LETTER: Why Frank Guinta Lost My Vote

Dear Bedford Patch,

Since the August recess is traditionally the time when members of Congress return home to their districts to hear their constituents’ concerns, I’ve been anxious to speak to my Congressman about issues important to me, like making college education affordable for my two children when they graduate high school next year. I saw in the Merrimack Patch that Guinta would be making an appearance at JCI Chemical on Monday August 13th, I called ahead to confirm that constituents were welcome to attend, so I drove from Bedford to see him and ask my question. 

When I arrived at the gate, I called again and asked to be let inside, whereupon my entry was refused. I was told the event was private, and that the Congressman was “around dangerous chemicals.” I reminded the person I was speaking to that Guinta’s salary was paid for with our tax dollars, that I was previously told the event was open to constituents, and that I have a right to speak to my employee about the job he’s been doing representing people like me in Washington. The receptionist told me she’d speak to one of Guinta’s staffers, took my number, and promised to call me back.

Fifteen-minutes later, she called back, apologized profusely, and relayed the staffer’s message to me: all questions for the Congressman should be diverted to the Congressman’s office. I reminded the kind woman that I had been waiting patiently outside the gate, had driven all the way from Bedford, and that gas was expensive. She apologized again and told me I wouldn’t be able to speak with Rep. Guinta today.

Then she asked if I needed anything else. I told her no, but to not vote for Guinta in November. She laughed and told me, “Don’t worry, I won’t.”

I’ve been watching Guinta’s campaign and congressional websites this month for any publicly-advertised town hall meetings, and haven’t found any. But Guinta has apparently had plenty of time for private fundraisers and appearances with big-time Republicans like Kelly Ayotte, Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan. Even as a conservative, I’m disgusted with Guinta and his lack of backbone, and unwillingness to meet with the people he allegedly represents.

On September 11th, I’m voting for Rick Parent in the Republican primary, as is former NH GOP chairman Jack Kimball and several other lifelong Republicans in my community. We’re all equally disappointed in our Congressman for refusing to give time to anyone who isn’t giving him money. And if Parent loses, I’m voting for Carol Shea-Porter in November. At least she’s willing to meet Granite Staters face to face and answer tough questions, which can hardly be said for a slug like Guinta.

Greg Williams
Bedford, NH

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