Denise Crusade Ricciardi is a Republican politician representing New Hampshire Senate District 9, which includes the towns of Bedford, Fitzwilliam, Greenfield, Hinsdale, Jaffrey, Lyndeborough, Mont Vernon, New Boston, Richmond, Sharon, Temple, Troy, and Winchester. Elected in 2020 after defeating Democratic incumbent Jeanne Dietsch, she serves as Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee and on the Education, Executive Department & Administration, and Transportation Committees. Notable achievements include sponsoring Senate Bill 99 to ensure Meals and Rentals Revenue Sharing provided tax relief to towns; advocating for Education Freedom Accounts and public school improvements; voting to cut taxes on Interest and Dividends, Meals and Rooms, and Business Enterprise and Business Profits; and codifying parental rights while protecting child welfare. She received the Disability Justice Champion Award from ABLE NH and the “Water Policy Champion” award for 2024 from the NH Water Pollution Control Association.

Education and Political Experience

• Education and Early Career: After college, Ricciardi worked in insurance for long-term care and Medicare supplements, later founding her own business in Nashua serving seniors across New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Her company expanded to aid nonprofits like the New Hampshire Association for the Blind and the American Red Cross.
• Political Experience: Entered politics opposing a cell phone tower near an elementary school, leading a successful community effort. Appointed by Governor Chris Sununu in 2019 to the state’s 5G Health Study Commission. Elected to Bedford Town Council , serving as Vice Chair and on the Conservation, Telecommunications, and Highway and Safety Commissions; helped maintain Bedford’s AAA bond rating from Moody’s. Founded Bedford Cares during COVID-19 to deliver essentials to at-risk residents. Volunteered with over 20 nonprofits and community groups.