Stefany Shaheen Calls for Rolling Back GOP Tax Breaks in New Hampshire

During a recent town‑hall in Portsmouth, Democratic congressional candidate Stefany Shaheen told the crowd, “We’ve got to roll back these tax breaks.” She added that her opponent, a Republican, “supports them,” framing the issue as a clear choice for voters.

Shaheen’s position would mean roughly a 20 % tax hike for New Hampshire families, reinstating taxes on tips, overtime pay and even a portion of Social Security benefits. Critics say the proposal would undo years of what they call “affordable living” for Granite Staters.

Her own record on taxes is a mixed bag. While serving on the Portsmouth city council, Shaheen backed a motion to raise hourly parking fees by a quarter and voted for the city’s first budget to top $100 million—a budget that included a property‑tax increase and another bump in parking fees. Those moves, some say, contradict her current anti‑tax stance.

Beyond local votes, Shaheen has benefited from her mother’s political network. Campaign finance filings show over $600,000 in donations traceable to Sen. Jeanne Shaheen’s donor pool, and the younger Shaheen’s former role as chief strategy officer for Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing helped secure a $44 million federal grant for Manchester.

The candidate also faced questions about political rhetoric. When asked in October 2025 whether incendiary language should be condemned, she sidestepped the issue, replying, “I hope you have a great night,” and walked away without addressing the concern.

Supporters argue Shaheen will fight for working families, while opponents label her a “nepotism baby” who wants to undo tax cuts that have already benefited the state. The debate is likely to heat up as the race moves toward the November ballot.