Terry Spahr

Terry Spahr is a Democratic member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, representing the Grafton 12th district. Born on February 17, 1966, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he has built a diverse career as a businessman, filmmaker, environmental activist, and politician. Spahr is currently serving in the New Hampshire legislature, where he is involved in various committees and initiatives focused on sustainability and community development.

Early life and career

Terry Spahr was raised in Philadelphia, where he attended The Haverford School, a private preparatory institution known for its rigorous academic standards. Following his high school education, he enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania, where he pursued a bachelor's degree in American History, graduating in 1988. During his time at the university, he was also an accomplished athlete, earning All American recognition in squash, a sport that requires both physical skill and strategic thinking.

After completing his undergraduate studies, Spahr entered the financial services industry in 1988. He began his career by selling insurance and investment products through Northwestern Mutual Life and Baird Securities. During this period, he obtained his series 6 and 63 securities licenses, as well as the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (CHFC) designations, which are indicative of his expertise in financial planning and investment strategies.

In 1996, Spahr expanded his professional portfolio by acquiring a Virginia Real Estate sales license and subsequently joined Long & Foster Real Estate as a salesperson. His career in real estate progressed rapidly; in 2001, he was appointed to open and manage the company’s first office in Pennsylvania. His leadership capabilities were recognized when he was promoted to regional vice president in 2011, a role in which he oversaw the growth and success of more than twenty Long & Foster offices and approximately 1,000 agents across New Jersey, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. His contributions to the company were significant enough to earn him a position on the board of directors of Long and Foster Companies.

In 2016, Spahr transitioned from the real estate sector to focus on environmental issues, a passion that had developed over the years. He wrote and produced "8 Billion Angels," an award-winning documentary that addresses environmental and human health concerns, which premiered globally in April 2021. This project marked a significant shift in his career, aligning his professional endeavors with his commitment to sustainability.

In 2018, he founded Earth Overshoot, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to education and advocacy for sustainable practices. As the Executive Director of Earth Overshoot, Spahr has become a prominent figure in discussions surrounding environmental sustainability. He engages in public speaking, media interviews, and writing, contributing blogs, articles, and op-eds that focus on humanity's impact on the planet and the importance of sustainable living.

Legislative service

In 2024, Terry Spahr entered the political arena by running for a seat in the New Hampshire State Legislature, representing the Grafton County 12th district as a Democrat. His campaign was successful, and he was elected to serve in the 2025 legislative biennial session. Spahr's election to the state legislature marked a new chapter in his career, allowing him to leverage his background in business and environmental advocacy to influence policy at the state level.

In the legislature, Spahr is a member of the Ways and Means Committee, where he participates in discussions and decisions related to the state's financial policies and budgetary matters. His role on this committee is crucial, as it involves evaluating the fiscal implications of proposed legislation and ensuring that the state's financial resources are allocated effectively.

In addition to his committee work, Spahr was appointed by the Governor to the Charitable Gaming Study Commission in 2025. This commission is tasked with examining the regulations and operations of charitable gaming in New Hampshire, an area that intersects with community funding and support for various local initiatives. His involvement in this commission reflects his commitment to understanding and improving the mechanisms that support community welfare.

Spahr is also an active member of the Emerging Technology Caucus within the New Hampshire Legislature. This caucus focuses on promoting innovation and the adoption of new technologies that can benefit the state’s economy and infrastructure. His participation in this group aligns with his broader interests in sustainability and the potential for technology to address environmental challenges.

Policy focus and district

As a legislator, Terry Spahr's policy focus is heavily influenced by his background in environmental advocacy and business. He is dedicated to promoting sustainable practices and policies that address the pressing issues of climate change and environmental degradation. His experience with Earth Overshoot informs his legislative priorities, as he seeks to implement measures that encourage sustainability in various sectors, including energy, transportation, and community development.

Spahr represents the Grafton 12th district, which encompasses a diverse constituency with varying needs and interests. His approach to governance emphasizes collaboration and community engagement, aiming to ensure that the voices of his constituents are heard in the legislative process. He is committed to addressing local concerns while also considering the broader implications of state policies on environmental sustainability and economic development.

In his role as a state representative, Spahr is focused on fostering a legislative environment that supports innovation and sustainability. He advocates for policies that not only address immediate community needs but also promote long-term ecological health and economic resilience. His work in the legislature is characterized by a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the active involvement of community members in shaping the future of their district.

Spahr's personal life reflects his dedication to family and community. He is divorced and has three adult sons. He resides in Hanover, New Hampshire, with his partner, Sara Perine. His experiences as a father and community member inform his perspectives on policy and governance, further enhancing his ability to represent the interests of his constituents effectively. Through his legislative service, Spahr continues to work towards a sustainable future for New Hampshire, balancing the needs of his district with the imperative of environmental stewardship.