Ward 1: Portsmouth & Newington

Anna Howard
for NH State Representative

As a CPA, an MBA, and an educator, I understand how budgets, taxes, public policy, and institutions shape people’s daily lives. I also understand that justice begins with economic justice. A community cannot truly thrive when working families cannot afford housing, health care, education, child care, or a secure retirement.I believe democracy depends on informed citizens, honest leadership, and active civic engagement. I am running for State Representative because I want to bring both professional expertise and deeply held values to public service: integrity, compassion, accountability, fairness, and respect for every person. Portsmouth and Newington are special communities, and I want to help protect what makes them strong while ensuring that opportunity, dignity, and a good quality of life remain within reach for generations to come.

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Engaged Citizenship

Long before I decided to run for office, I was an engaged citizen and an active member of the Portsmouth community. My child attended New Franklin Elementary School, where I served as co-treasurer of the PTO. I now serve as a commissioner on Portsmouth’s Economic Development Commission, helping our city remain vibrant, welcoming, and economically strong.Since my family moved to Portsmouth nine years ago, I have volunteered every week at the Portsmouth Senior Center. My family are active members of South Church and I serve on its Board of Trustees. For generations, South Church has been a beacon for social justice on the Seacoast, and I am proud to contribute to that tradition of service, inclusion, and moral courage.Over the years, I have organized community events, participated in rallies and marches, and served as a trained peacekeeper helping public gatherings remain safe and respectful. My commitment to democracy, justice, human rights, and community service did not begin with this campaign. It is the foundation of why I am running and of the kind of representative I hope to be.

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Value-Based Leadership

Leadership begins with values. Whether in the classroom, the community, or public service, I believe in leading with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to justice. I believe every person has inherent worth and dignity, that equity requires us to address barriers rather than ignore them, and that our lives and communities are deeply interconnected.For me, leadership means deep listening, welcoming different perspectives, acting with generosity, and remaining open to growth and transformation. It means using power responsibly, protecting those whose voices are too often overlooked, and working with others to build a more just, inclusive, and compassionate future.

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Education

Education is one of the most powerful tools we have for strengthening democracy and expanding opportunity. As an educator, I have dedicated my career to helping people learn, think critically, and make informed decisions; skills that are just as important in public service as they are in the classroom.

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