NH Senate President Jeb Bradley won't run again in 2024, says he's at 'crossroads'

CONCORD — Long-time New Hampshire lawmaker and current state Senate President Jeb Bradley is not running for re-election in 2024, he announced Thursday.

"There are times that come to a crossroads, and I’m at one of those times, and I’m not going to seek re-election. It's a bit bittersweet because I've had the opportunity to serve across the wall, to serve in our nation's capitol, and to serve in this absolutely beautiful room,” Bradley said during the Senate’s late session. “I can tell you that there's no nicer place to do the people's business than right here in this room.”

The Wolfeboro Republican has been the Senate president since 2022 and a senator since 2009, but his career in New Hampshire politics is much longer than that. He was a state representative in New Hampshire from 1990-2002 before getting elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served from 2003-2006.

Bradley urged the senators to never change their status as “glorified volunteers with a fancy, schmancy license plate” and praised their ability to come together despite their differences.

“We don't always agree, and sometimes do fight like cats and dogs, and cats and dogs always fight. But we also come together more than people know and do the people's business,” said Bradley. “It's been an honor to be up at this podium. It's been an honor to sit down there, it's been an honor to call all of you my friends.”

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He thanked his wife, Karen, as well as his staff, the voters in the first congressional district, and those in the state Senate third district.

The senators gave him a standing ovation at the conclusion of his speech.

"Senator Jeb Bradley's career has been marked by his service to New Hampshire," Gov. Chris Sununu said in a prepared statement. "Always engaged, always involved - Senator Bradley has been there time and time again to find consensus, get the job done, and deliver results for Granite State families. We wish him the best!"

New Hampshire Republican Party Chairman Chris Ager congratulated Bradley on his retirement.

“Jeb’s unwavering commitment to the Granite State and his exemplary service in the New Hampshire Senate have left an indelible mark on our state’s political landscape,” Ager said in a prepared statement. “His leadership, characterized by integrity, wisdom, and an unyielding dedication to the well-being of all New Hampshire residents, has been a guiding light for our party and our people.”

Bradley will continue to serve as Senate president for the remainder of the session. The filing period for those running for his Senate seat, and for all state offices, will take place the second and third weeks of June.

Senate Democratic Leader Donna Soucy offered praise for Bradley as well.

“From his time as the chair of the House Science and Technology (Committee) to his time as the Senate President, I have always known Senator Bradley to sincerely dedicate himself to finding bipartisan solutions, especially on the most challenging issues," Soucy said in a prepared statement. "You can always count on Senator Bradley to work to find a ‘Bradley Special,' and to challenge us all to do the same."

Soon after Bradley’s announcement, Rep. Mark McConkey, R-Freedom, announced his candidacy for Senate District 3. McConkey has served in the state House of Representatives for nine terms and is the chairman of the House Public Works and Highways Committee.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: NH Senate President Jeb Bradley won't run again in 2024