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Sununu Announces He Won't Seek Fourth Term as New Hampshire Governor

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  Published in Politics and Government on Friday, January 9th 2026 at 18:12 GMT by The Messenger
      Locales: Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Nevada, UNITED STATES

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CONCORD, N.H. - In a move that has sent ripples through New Hampshire's political establishment, Governor Chris Sununu announced Wednesday that he will not be seeking a fourth term in 2024. The decision, delivered during a press conference alongside his family, comes as a surprise given Sununu's consistent popularity and previously stated intentions to run again.

Sununu, a Republican, has served as governor since 2017 and has maintained consistently high approval ratings, positioning him as a powerful figure in the Granite State and a potential candidate for higher office. His announcement immediately throws the gubernatorial race wide open, prompting speculation about potential contenders from both the Democratic and Republican parties.

While Sununu didn't explicitly rule out future political ambitions, he emphasized a desire to prioritize family life and a growing concern about the increasingly polarized political climate. "This was an incredibly difficult decision," Sununu stated, "But after a lot of thought and soul-searching, I've come to the conclusion that it's time for me to step aside and let someone else lead." He cited a desire to be more present for his daughters' activities and to reconnect with personal life outside the demands of campaigning and governance. "I want to be able to spend more time with my family," he explained. "I want to be able to coach my daughters' sports teams. I want to be able to take my wife on a date without having to worry about the next election."

The governor also expressed a broader worry about the state of national politics. "I'm worried about the direction our country is headed," he said. "I think we need to find a way to come together and work together. And I don't think I can do that as governor." This sentiment suggests a potential disillusionment with the current political landscape and a belief that effective leadership requires a different approach than what is currently prevalent.

A Competitive Race Looms

Sununu's departure creates a significant power vacuum in New Hampshire politics. On the Democratic side, Executive Councilor Cindi Burdick and state Senator Melanie LeFebvre have already formally announced their candidacies, signaling an eagerness to challenge for the governorship. Their platforms are expected to focus on issues such as affordable healthcare, education funding, and environmental protection.

On the Republican side, former state Senate President Chuck Morse is widely anticipated to enter the race. Morse is a familiar face in New Hampshire politics and is expected to run on a platform emphasizing fiscal conservatism, limited government, and support for law enforcement. Other potential Republican candidates may emerge in the coming weeks as they assess the political landscape.

The race is expected to be highly competitive, with both parties vying to capitalize on Sununu's departure and appeal to independent voters, who hold significant sway in New Hampshire elections. The absence of a well-established incumbent will likely lead to a more open and dynamic campaign, allowing new voices and ideas to gain traction.

Sununu's Legacy and Future

Sununu's decision brings an end to a political career marked by pragmatic leadership and a willingness to buck party lines. Throughout his time as governor, he has often positioned himself as a moderate Republican, appealing to centrist voters and forging compromises with Democrats on key issues. He's been praised for his fiscal responsibility and his efforts to promote economic growth in New Hampshire.

While Sununu has repeatedly downplayed ambitions for national office, his name has frequently been mentioned in discussions about potential U.S. Senate or even presidential runs. However, his stated desire to prioritize family life suggests he is unlikely to pursue higher office in the near future. Nevertheless, his political acumen and popularity mean he will likely remain a prominent voice in New Hampshire and national politics for years to come. His departure will be felt keenly by the state, as he leaves behind a legacy of competent governance and a void in leadership that will be difficult to fill.