Speaker ran forum like he runs House

This past weekend, Rep. Frank Holden, R-Lyndeborough, held a forum at the Lyndeborough Town Hall with House Speaker Bill O’Brien and Deputy Speaker Pam Tucker.

After nearly an hour of touting budget cuts, O’Brien ran the meeting like he runs the House. He interrupted people, shouted down speakers, and actually told a few people to sit down and be quiet.

He even engaged in a shouting match with a 15-year-old who asked questions about trying to deny college students the right to vote because they are liberals. You have to wonder who the adult was here.

Holden expressed his displeasure that people came from towns other than Lyndeborough. Holden should represent all towns in his district, and O’Brien should represent all constituents regardless of town.

At one point, Holden solicited questions from Lyndeborough residents. I asked about the delay of the “right-to-work” veto override vote at a special session when 390 House members were present, and the need for so many sessions after the recess, where a surprise vote would be possible.

O’Brien stated the speaker has the right to schedule anything at will without notice, and that former Democratic Speaker Terie Norelli often did this.

I was a member of the House for Norelli’s first session – and have confirmed with other representatives – she always ensured proper notice and never rescheduled anything without first conferring with leadership from both parties.

I doubt anyone came away from this meeting with a positive view of the House leadership.

Mike Kaelin

Lyndeborough