Kelly Ayotte, New Hampshire’s governor-elect, has outlined key priorities for her administration, emphasising housing, education, and public safety. She plans to address the state’s deepening housing crisis by streamlining permitting processes and improving transparency to boost development. Ayotte also supports expanding educational opportunities, particularly trade programs, as a way to retain young talent in the Granite State. However, she remains opposed to legalising marijuana, citing potential risks to road safety and mental health. Her approach to governance builds on her campaign promise to continue the “Sununu path” while integrating her own policy goals.

Ayotte’s background in law enforcement heavily influences her leadership style. With experience as a top prosecutor and attorney general, she’s prioritised public safety with initiatives like creating a Public Safety Task Force and tackling law enforcement recruitment and retention challenges. Early on, Ayotte appointed Hillsborough County Sheriff Christopher Connelly as her chief of staff, signaling her focus on law and order. These initial moves highlight her intent to keep New Hampshire one of the safest states in the nation. For further details, visit Seacoast Online and NHPR.