‘I’d like to stay in the media’: N.H. Governor Chris Sununu on what’s next after he leaves office – The Boston Globe

CONCORD, N.H. — With just a few weeks before he vacates the corner office, Governor Chris Sununu has a few ideas about his next gig.

One thing he’s clear on: It has to pay, and, at least to start, he said, that means working in the for-profit sector.

“I think I’m really excited to work with some nonprofits down the road, but I’m trying to make sure that the things [I do] can help me pay bills and whatnot,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

Rather than focusing on one job, Sununu, 50, said he plans to pursue a “bread basket” of things to spend his time on. That bread basket could include positions on boards, private equity, and advocacy on civic issues like balanced budget amendments, he said.

But just because he’s no longer governor doesn’t mean he intends to fade from the public eye entirely.

“Obviously, you know, everyone’s been speculating, and I haven’t signed on the dotted line with anybody, but I’d like to stay in the media a little bit,” he said. “It kind of helps scratch the political itch a little bit, just having a voice there, and being able to be involved in that discussion.”

Sununu has been among New Hampshire’s longest-serving governors, holding the position for four two-year terms. Since he announced he would not seek reelection in July 2023, he’s been coy about his next move, as his name was tossed around as a possible contender in the presidential race.

Would he run in four years?

“Not in the plans,” he said. “[I’m] focusing on making some money and taking care of my family.”

Before his tenure as governor, Sununu served for three terms on New Hampshire’s executive council. He has also worked as an environmental engineer, a business consultant, and as chief executive of the Waterville Valley Ski Resort, which is owned by his family. He is married and has three children.

He comes from a family that has created a political dynasty in the state: his father, John H. Sununu was a three-term governor and became chief of staff to President George H.W. Bush; his mother, Nancy Sununu, served as chairperson of the state Republican Party; his brother, John E. Sununu, was a member of Congress and a US senator; and his brother, Michael Sununu, is a selectman in Newfields.

A version of this story first appeared in Globe NH | Morning Report, our free newsletter focused on the news you need to know about New Hampshire, including great coverage from the Boston Globe and links to interesting articles from other places. If you’d like to receive it via e-mail Monday through Friday, you can sign up here.

Amanda Gokee can be reached at amanda.gokee@globe.com. Follow her @amanda_gokee.