Novel Hampshire Representative Wendy Thomas Removed from House Committee

Merrimack, NH – New Hampshire House Representative Wendy Thomas, a Democrat representing Hillsborough County, has been removed from her position on the Science, Technology and Energy Committee. The removal, initiated by House Speaker Sherman Packard, was communicated to Thomas via email on Monday, March 10, 2026, according to reporting from New Hampshire Public Radio and InDepthNH.org.

No Explanation Provided

Representative Thomas stated she received no explanation from Speaker Packard or the committee chair, Michael Vose, regarding the reason for her removal. Vose did not respond to requests for comment, NHPR reported.

Speaker Cites Authority and Ongoing Situation

The Speaker’s Office released a statement asserting Packard’s authority to modify committee membership “at any time for any reason,” as noted by New Hampshire Public Radio. The statement also indicated the change followed “several weeks of conversation with House Democratic leadership, and efforts to resolve an ongoing situation.”

Democratic Leadership Response

House Minority Leader Alexis Simpson, however, refuted the claim of involvement from Democratic leadership. NHPR reported Simpson stated she advocated for Thomas to remain on the committee due to her “important work on energy policy.” The House Democrats have not yet determined how to fill the vacant seat on the Science, Technology and Energy Committee.

Thomas’s Background and Advocacy

Wendy Thomas, first elected to the New Hampshire House of Representatives in 2018, has been a vocal advocate on issues impacting Merrimack, including water contamination and a proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility, according to New Hampshire Public Radio. She has also authored op-eds critical of Governor Kelly Ayotte and the Free State Project. Ballotpedia notes she was re-elected in November 2024, with her current term ending December 2, 2026.

Future Plans

Representative Thomas stated she is scheduled to meet with Speaker Packard next week to seek clarification on the situation and explore a “constructive path forward,” NHPR reported. She remains focused on representing her constituents and continuing her work for the people of New Hampshire.