Chris Sununu: A Reflection on Eight Years of Leadership in New Hampshire

NEWFIELDS, N.H. – As his tenure draws to a close, Republican Governor Chris Sununu of New Hampshire prepares for his exit after eight impactful years in office. Since being elected the youngest governor in the nation, Sununu has navigated the complexities of leading New England’s only swing state.

A Look Back at Accomplishments

Governor Sununu announced last year that he would not seek an unprecedented fifth consecutive two-year term. New Hampshire and Vermont remain unique in the United States for holding gubernatorial elections every two years, making the governor’s decision notable.

As he prepares to leave office, Sununu’s approval ratings remain strong, a testament to his leadership and popularity among constituents. His balanced approach to governance has resonated with New Hampshire residents, allowing him to maintain a steady approval amid the politically charged atmosphere of recent years.

What Lies Ahead for Sununu?

At 50 years old, the question on many minds is: what’s next for Chris Sununu? He expressed enthusiasm for returning to the private sector, stating, “I’m excited to get back to the private sector. I like businesses, I like deal sourcing. I’m not sure exactly what the private sector is going to bring, but I think it’s going to be pretty exciting,” he mentioned in a recent Fox News Digital interview.

The Future of New Hampshire Politics

As Sununu exits the stage, the political landscape in New Hampshire remains dynamic. With long-serving Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen seeking reelection in 2026, many speculate about his possible involvement in future political contests, notably a Senate run. National Republicans are likely to court Sununu for this high-stakes race.

However, he has been clear about his intentions, stating, “Definitely ruling out running for the Senate in 2026. Yeah, definitely not on my dance card,” reaffirming his focus on the private sector. He remains optimistic, however, highlighting the potential for strong Republican candidates to emerge for the Senate seat. “I think the people in the state… would love a different voice, would love just some sort of change,” he remarked.

Presidential Aspirations Considered

Sununu has made national headlines over the years, particularly with speculation surrounding a possible presidential candidacy. He ultimately decided against running for the White House in 2024, focusing instead on a successful transition to his successor. While he emphasized that he is currently not contemplating another run for office, he left the door open, stating, “We’ll see what political chapters write themselves down the road.”

A Smooth Transition

Sununu’s tenure will be succeeded by Kelly Ayotte, a fellow Republican, former state attorney general, and U.S. senator. He actively supported Ayotte’s campaign, emphasizing her experienced background during her successful election with a margin of nearly nine and a half points against her Democratic rival, former Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig.

When asked about Ayotte’s victory, Sununu remarked, “It was a victory for New Hampshire,” highlighting his optimism for the future leadership of the state. He is confident that Ayotte will continue the initiatives he championed during his tenure, stating, “Kelly’s going to be phenomenal. She has that experience as an attorney general, as U.S. senator. She understands how the systems work.”

Support and Guidance for Ayotte

Throughout the transition process, Sununu has remarked on the collaborative nature of governance. He noted that discussions are happening “virtually every single day” concerning the various facets of government in New Hampshire, focusing on building functional teams and addressing the needs of communities.

When it comes to offering guidance to his successor, Sununu stated, “she’ll have my cell number. I don’t know if she’ll need it, because I think she’s going to be fantastic on her own, but she’ll always have my cell number.” Both Sununu and Ayotte are committed to continuity and smooth operations within the state’s government.

A Legacy of Collaboration

Looking back at his relationships with past governors, John Lynch and now-Senator Maggie Hassan, Sununu underscored the teamwork often necessary in governance. “We want New Hampshire to be successful. So, it’s not just me helping Kelly out. It is always a team effort,” he remarked, emphasizing the spirit of cooperation among state leaders.

Concluding Thoughts

As Chris Sununu embarks on a new chapter in his life and career, his legacy as New Hampshire’s governor remains a crucial part of the state’s political narrative. With a commitment to the principles of effective governance and community engagement, he leaves behind a robust framework for future leaders, a reminder of the importance of leadership steeped in collaboration and a shared vision for New Hampshire’s future.