New Hampshire Lawmaker's Attempt to Add Holocaust Denier to Education Commission Fails
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A New Hampshire state representative's proposed amendment to add a member from an extremist group to the state's Holocaust and Genocide Education Commission has been defeated. The attempt involved inviting a convicted Holocaust denier to testify before the commission. State leaders from both parties have since condemned antisemitism and distanced themselves from the lawmaker.
Facts First
- An amendment to add an extremist group member to New Hampshire's Holocaust education commission failed after being proposed by State Representative Matt Sabourin dit Choinière.
- Holocaust denial activist Germar Rudolf testified at the hearing at the invitation of Sabourin dit Choinière, alongside two other men known for antisemitic activism.
- State leaders have condemned the actions, with Governor Kelly Ayotte stating criminal Holocaust deniers should not serve on state commissions.
- Sabourin dit Choinière posted about the amendment on Holocaust Remembrance Day with the caption 'ahead of our time.'
- Political endorsements linked to the lawmaker have been rescinded, including one from a Republican congressional candidate who said he was unaware of the support for Holocaust denial.
What Happened
In January 2024, New Hampshire State Representative Matt Sabourin dit Choinière proposed an amendment to add a member from an extremist group to the New Hampshire Commission on Holocaust and Genocide Education. The commission is a nonpartisan group of educators, religious leaders, and a survivor of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Sabourin dit Choinière invited Germar Rudolf, a Holocaust denial activist with a criminal record, to testify at a hearing for a bill to extend the commission's term. Two other men known for antisemitic activism also testified. The amendment to add the extremist group member failed.
Why this Matters to You
This incident highlights how antisemitic views may be seeking influence within official state bodies responsible for education. It could affect the integrity of historical education about genocide in New Hampshire schools. The subsequent political fallout, where endorsements were rescinded, shows this issue is prompting a reassessment of alliances within the state's political landscape. The response from state leaders suggests a broad, bipartisan commitment to rejecting hate, which may help maintain the commission's educational mission.
What's Next
The New Hampshire Commission on Holocaust and Genocide Education is likely to continue its work, with a bill to extend its term for three more years still under consideration. The political repercussions for Sabourin dit Choinière may continue, as organizations like the New Hampshire chapter of Americans for Prosperity have distanced themselves from past endorsements. The incident may lead to increased scrutiny of the backgrounds and associations of individuals appointed to or proposing members for similar educational commissions.