Staff reports 7:40 a.m.
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 7:39 am

NH GOP chair Paul Callaghan (Courtesy photo)

CONCORD - Following the resignation of Chairman Jim MacEachern, former Rochester Mayor Paul Callaghan has been elected Chairman of the New Hampshire Republican State Committee by the Executive Committee.

"I'm incredibly honored to take on this role," said Callaghan. "The strength of our party comes from the grassroots up, and I'm excited to work with our committees and elected officials across New Hampshire to win in November."

"Paul has won tough races the New Hampshire way -- by knocking doors and working hard. He knows how to build a strong grassroots campaign, and he has never backed down from the tough fights," said Governor Kelly Ayotte. "Paul understands what it takes to win and he's exactly what our party needs as we head into November."

About Chairman Paul Callaghan

Callaghan is a lifelong resident of Rochester and a decorated law enforcement officer.

Most recently, he served as Mayor of Rochester, where he flipped the seat for Republicans and was the first Republican Mayor in 20 years. During his tenure, Callaghan reduced crime, revived the city's downtown, and increased jobs.

Previously, Callaghan served in the Rochester Police Department for 25 years and currently serves as a prosecutor and lieutenant in the Strafford County Sheriff's Department. Callaghan also serves as a member of the Strafford County Superior Court Drug Court Team.