by Lowell Mayor Danny Rourke

As Mayor of Lowell, Massachusetts, I find it deeply disappointing that Governor Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire chose to single out Lowell and Lawrence in her recent tweet about drug trafficking. Rather than fostering the collaboration and shared responsibility necessary to address regional challenges, the governor has instead opted to unfairly target our communities while turning a blind eye to her state’s own issues. Let’s be clear: drug trafficking is a national and regional problem, not one confined to specific cities or states, and no community is immune. New Hampshire, it’s time to look in the mirror.

Lowell is a city that has long been a beacon of innovation, resilience, and progress. We are home to world-class universities like UMass Lowell, a thriving arts and cultural scene, cutting-edge technology companies, and a diverse and hardworking community. Our schools are preparing the next generation of leaders, and our local businesses are driving economic growth. From our revitalized downtown to our nationally recognized parks and waterways, Lowell has been steadily building a bright future for all its residents. To suggest that our city is defined by the actions of a few bad actors is both ignorant and disrespectful.

Furthermore, let me take a moment to recognize the incredible progress and vitality of our neighbors in Lawrence. The City of Lawrence is rich in culture, history, and community spirit. Its residents have demonstrated remarkable strength and innovation, contributing meaningfully to the Merrimack Valley and beyond. The truth is, both Lowell and Lawrence are communities full of promise, and they deserve to be uplifted, not disparaged.

What’s even more troubling about Governor Ayotte’s remarks is the glaring omission of accountability for New Hampshire’s own challenges. It is no secret that Manchester has become a hub for drug activity, drawing individuals from Vermont, northern New Hampshire, and even parts of Maine. Pointing fingers at other cities without acknowledging the trafficking issues in your own backyard is not only hypocritical but counterproductive.

Rather than casting blame, we should be working together across state lines to combat the opioid crisis and support those who need help. Regional collaboration, shared resources, and compassionate policies are the only ways we can truly address this crisis. Scapegoating neighboring cities like Lowell and Lawrence does nothing to move us forward.

Lowell’s success is built on community, collaboration, and a commitment to progress. We will not allow one misguided comment to tarnish our reputation or detract from the incredible work being done here. I invite Governor Ayotte to visit Lowell and see firsthand the innovation, diversity, and vibrancy of our city. Perhaps then she will understand that we are not a problem to be feared but a partner to be embraced.

In the meantime, I encourage New Hampshire to focus on its own challenges and work with its neighbors to find real solutions. Divisive rhetoric will not solve the opioid crisis—only unity and collaboration will.

(Editorial is in response to the following tweet from Governor Kelly Ayotte: “It’s time for drug dealers from Lowell and Lawrence to be afraid of trafficking their poison into our state. New Hampshire law enforcement will find you, stop you, and lock you up.”  Link to Tweet/x )