Saying it's time for new blood, Sununu announces he'll not seek a fifth term

New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu pauses for a quick chat with Nerw Hampshire State Sen. and Rochester City Councilor Jim Gray prior to an Executive Council meeting in Dover on Wednesday. (Rochester Voice photo)

DOVER - New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu announced on Wednesday he will not seek a fifth term in the corner office, setting up fierce primary battles in both parties to see who will run in the general election next year.
Sununu, who met with the Executive Council at the Henry Law Park Pavilion in Dover on Wednesday, made the announcement around noon.
Sununu, who told supporters elected office should not be a career and the time is now for new blood to take the reins, has said he would like to remain a force on the national GOP stage. He has not endorsed any of those currently running, but has expressed much dissatisfaction with frontrunner and former president Donald Trump.
Immediately upon the announcement former House speaker Chuck Morse, a Republican, tossed his hat into the ring for the upcoming gubernatorial race, while former U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte teased that she would have big news in the coming days.
Other GOP contenders could include New Hampshire Education Commission Frank Edelblut.
Meanwhile, two well-known Democrats, Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig and Executive Councilor Cinde Warmington, have both announced their intention to run for governor.