Last week, State Rep. Robert “Renny” Cushing died after a battle with cancer. Even though he didn’t represent any Greater Nashua communities, the impact he had on the Granite State can been seen all over this fine state

Cushing, D-Hampton, was first elected to the House in 1986, serving his eighth non-consecutive term in Concord, where he was known for pushing progressive causes. He spent more than 20 years trying to repeal the state’s death penalty law, finally achieving victory in 2019 when lawmakers overrode a veto by Republican Gov. Chris Sununu.

That fight was intensely personal. After Cushing’s father was murdered in 1988, a long-time family friend told him he hoped his father’s killer would “fry.” But Cushing’s opposition to capital punishment only deepened after his loss.

He founded Murder Victims’ Families for Human Rights, and as its executive director, traveled the country speaking on behalf of victims against the death penalty.

“If we let those who kill turn us into killers, then evil triumphs and we all lose,” he said on March 7, 2019, when his bill passed the House, three years to the day before his death. “That does nothing to bring back our loved ones. All it does is widen the circle of violence.”

Sununu directed flags in Hampton to be flown at half-staff on Cushing’s day of internment. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle praised his dedication and offered condolences.

“He chose to light a candle rather than curse the darkness. Now we must be brave and follow that flame,” said Rep. Marjorie Smith, D-Durham, House Democratic policy leader.

House Speaker Sherm Packard, R-Londonderry, said it had been an honor to serve alongside Cushing.

“He was highly respected amongst his peers in the House and throughout the state of New Hampshire,” Packard said.

We couldn’t agree more. Cushing did much for the state, and we will feel the impact of his actions for many years to come.

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