State Rep denied re-entry to executive committee due to political party change

CONCORD, NH – In a 53-48 vote, State Representative Maria Perez (I-Milford) will not be allowed to return to the Hillsborough County Delegation Executive Committee.

Perez left the Democratic Party in October, citing frustration with a lack of progress on issues that matter to her and a feeling that she was no longer welcome in the party.

As a result of leaving the Democratic Party, Perez was removed from her role on the Hillsborough County Delegation Executive Committee, a group of state representatives that weigh in on county budgets and other county-related matters. This move came due to a state law requiring members of that committee to be either members of the majority or minority party in the House of Representatives.

Perez disagrees with the interpretation of state law and felt that the vote on Wednesday was a form of retribution.

“They are not the unilateral judges of how the (law) reads or the intention of the legislature when it was passed. I have served honorably as a member of the Executive Committee and removing me because of a formal party affiliation seems retaliatory and short-sighted,” she said. “I want to thank the members from both parties who stood by me today. Their loyalty to person over politics speaks volumes to their character.”

All of the votes in support of Perez came from Republicans, with the exception of Jonah Wheeler and Peter Leishman of Peterborough and Damond Ford of Manchester.

Republican State Rep. Sandra Panek of Pelham was disappointed with the outcome, stating that the decision ignores the fact that voters in Perez’ district are not affiliated with either party.

“Unfortunately, we lost by just a couple of votes to save her seat,” said Panek. “This is such a tragedy, Maria Perez has independent constituents who will now not have representation [on the executive committee].”

Pat Long (D-Manchester) explained the vote came down to the wording in the law, referencing majority and minority parties, and that while legislation could change that law in the future, it is what it is right now.

“(Perez) knew this prior to changing party affiliation. She’s taking it personal, it’s nothing personal. I like Maria,” said Long. “However, it’s unfair for Democrats to be short on the Executive Committee.”