In the ongoing New Hampshire gubernatorial race, both candidates, Kelly Ayotte and Joyce Craig, have outlined their approaches to various critical issues, including the opioid epidemic, which continues to affect communities across the state.

### Joyce Craig's Approach

As the former Mayor of Manchester, Joyce Craig has a track record of addressing the opioid crisis. During her tenure, Craig's administration implemented several initiatives that led to significant reductions in opioid-related issues. According to her, violent crime in Manchester decreased by 40%, and opioid overdoses dropped by 20% under her leadership.

Craig's strategy involved a multifaceted approach, including community outreach and support programs. Her administration's efforts to provide resources and services to those affected by the opioid epidemic have been highlighted as key factors in these improvements.

### Kelly Ayotte's Plans

While Kelly Ayotte has not specifically detailed her past actions on the opioid epidemic, her broader health care and community support plans suggest a commitment to addressing public health issues. As a former U.S. Senator, Ayotte has experience in advocating for policies that support family caregivers and the health care workforce, which could be pivotal in combating the opioid crisis.

Ayotte has emphasized the importance of making health care more affordable and accessible, which includes ensuring the right training programs are in place for health care professionals. This could indirectly support efforts to combat the opioid epidemic by ensuring a well-equipped workforce.

### Housing and Health Care Interconnection

Both candidates recognize the interconnection between housing, health care, and the opioid epidemic. Ayotte has proposed streamlining the state's approval process to build more housing, including workforce housing, which can help stabilize communities and reduce the vulnerability to opioid abuse.

Craig, on the other hand, has highlighted her work in Manchester, where she oversaw significant affordable housing initiatives. She believes that providing stable and affordable housing is crucial for individuals recovering from addiction and for preventing further opioid-related issues.

### Conclusion

The opioid epidemic remains a pressing concern in New Hampshire, and both gubernatorial candidates have shown a commitment to addressing it. While Craig's past achievements in Manchester offer tangible evidence of her effectiveness, Ayotte's broader policy proposals suggest a comprehensive approach to health care and community support that could also benefit opioid epidemic mitigation efforts. As the state moves forward, it is clear that a multifaceted strategy involving housing, health care, and community support will be essential in combating this ongoing crisis.