A publisher and politician who served as Governor of New Hampshire, known for his conservative views and efforts to reduce state government spending. He was a vocal critic of the federal government and advocated for states' rights.
Meldrim Thomson Jr., the 73rd governor of New Hampshire, served three terms from 1973 to 1979, leaving an indelible mark on the state's politics with his unwavering commitment to conservative values. As a stalwart defender of fiscal responsibility, Thomson's governance was characterized by his refusal to accept federal education aid and his promise to veto any new sales or income tax.
Born on March 8, 1912, in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, Thomson grew up in Georgia and Florida. He was an Eagle Scout and pursued higher education at Mercer University, Washington and Jefferson College, and the University of Georgia School of Law. In 1936, he was admitted to the practice of law in Florida.
In 1938, Thomson married Anne Gale Kelly, and together they had six children. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Equity Publishing Corp. in 1952, which published the laws of New Hampshire, Vermont, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico in English and Spanish. This venture not only contributed to his financial success but also deepened his involvement in local and state educational and tax issues in New Hampshire, where he relocated in 1955.
Thomson's entry into politics was marked by his 1966 stint as chairman of the Orford School Board, where he refused federal education aid due to the attached strings. He contested and lost the Republican primaries in 1968 and 1970, but his persistence paid off in 1972 when he ran for governor as a Republican. He defeated incumbent governor Walter R. Peterson Jr. in the primary and subsequently won the general election against Democrat Robert J. Crowley, securing 41.39% of the vote.
In 1974, Thomson secured a narrow reelection against Democrat Richard W. Leonard, and in 1976, he clinched a third term against Democrat Harry V. Spanos.
During his tenure, Thomson remained committed to his conservative ideology, prioritizing fiscal responsibility and limited government intervention. His governance was marked by his opposition to tax increases and his dedication to reducing the state's budget deficit. Thomson's leadership style was characterized by his strong convictions and willingness to take unpopular stands, earning him both admiration and criticism.
Thomson passed away on April 19, 2001, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape New Hampshire's political landscape. His personal life was marked by his commitment to family and community, with his marriage to Anne spanning over six decades.
Meldrim Thomson Jr.'s unwavering commitment to conservative principles and his leadership during a tumultuous period in American history have cemented his place in New Hampshire's political history, making him a fascinating figure worth exploring further.
Born in 1911
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