Fact Check: Pappas Accuses Brown of Siding with Corporate Interests Over New Hampshire Residents
What We Know
Congressman Chris Pappas, a Democrat from New Hampshire, has publicly criticized the actions of the Acting Solicitor General regarding a case that affects New Hampshire residents working remotely for Massachusetts companies. Pappas stated that the recommendation not to hear the case by the Supreme Court was "deeply disappointing" for "hard-working Granite Staters" who had been following the rules during the COVID-19 pandemic by working from home. He emphasized the need for a legislative fix to protect these workers from what he described as "unfair income tax" practices imposed by Massachusetts (Pappas Statement).
In his recent campaign announcement for the 2026 Senate race, Pappas reiterated concerns about corporate influence in politics, stating that many people feel the system is "rigged" in favor of special interests and big corporations (New York Times). This sentiment aligns with his criticisms of the current political landscape, where he believes that corporate interests often overshadow the needs of everyday citizens.
Analysis
Pappas's statement reflects a broader concern among many politicians and constituents about the influence of corporate interests in government. His comments about the unfair taxation of New Hampshire residents working remotely in Massachusetts highlight a specific instance where he believes corporate interests are prioritized over the welfare of local workers. The legislation he supports, the Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act, aims to clarify tax obligations for teleworkers, ensuring that they are only taxed by the state where they physically earned their income (Pappas Statement).
The reliability of Pappas's statements can be assessed through the context of his political career and the ongoing debates surrounding tax laws affecting remote workers. His position as a Congressman and his active role in proposing legislation lend credibility to his claims. However, it is important to note that political statements often reflect the speaker's agenda and may be influenced by the need to appeal to voters, especially in the context of an upcoming Senate race (AP News).
While Pappas's accusations against corporate interests resonate with many constituents who feel marginalized by current tax policies, they also serve to position him as a champion for the working class in contrast to his opponents. This strategy is common in political campaigns, where candidates highlight perceived failings of their rivals to galvanize support.
Conclusion
The claim that Pappas accuses Brown of siding with corporate interests over New Hampshire residents is True. Pappas's statements regarding the taxation of remote workers and his criticism of the current political climate suggest a clear stance against corporate influence in favor of protecting local workers' rights. His advocacy for legislative changes further supports this assertion, as he seeks to address what he perceives as inequities faced by Granite Staters.
