The conversation around abortion has certainly evolved. In the 2024 election, the focus was more on economic issues rather than social issues like abortion. The Republican candidate emerged victorious in the governor’s race, indicating that voters were more concerned about economic policies and the direction of the state rather than divisive social issues.
Governor Chris Sununu’s pragmatic approach to governance has resonated with voters in New Hampshire, allowing him to navigate the challenges of a changing political landscape. Sununu’s ability to balance his support for President Trump with his own brand of Republicanism has set him apart in a party that has been reshaped by the former president.
Sununu’s reluctance to fully embrace Trump’s style of politics reflects his belief that the GOP is still a diverse coalition of different factions, from fiscal conservatives to social conservatives to libertarian-leaners. While Trump may have remade the party in his image, Sununu remains optimistic that there is room for a variety of voices within the GOP.
As Sununu prepares to leave office after eight years, he remains committed to his efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and improve access to mental health care in New Hampshire. His focus on practical solutions to pressing issues has been a hallmark of his time in office, and he plans to stay involved in politics in some capacity in the future.
Despite his success in navigating the complexities of the modern GOP, Sununu faces challenges in expanding his influence beyond New England. While he has helped elect candidates like Kelly Ayotte in the past, his support for Nikki Haley in the presidential primary did not yield the desired results. Sununu’s future in politics remains uncertain, but his pragmatic leadership style and commitment to serving the people of New Hampshire will continue to define his legacy in the years to come. New Hampshire has been a shining example of how abortion rights can be protected while still maintaining certain restrictions. With the state allowing abortions up to 24 weeks of pregnancy, with exceptions, no one has been denied their rights. This goes to show that the fearmongering around abortion restrictions has not come to fruition in New Hampshire.
While some states may have more or less restrictive abortion laws, it ultimately comes down to the voters in those states to decide. The issue of abortion will continue to be debated, but it may not be the political backbreaker that some Democrats anticipate it to be.
Criticism of President Trump within the Republican Party is not only possible but necessary. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz recently faced pushback in his nomination for U.S. attorney general, showing that there are individuals within the party willing to speak out when needed. This should provide reassurance to the American people that the party is not heading towards a dictatorship, as some may have feared.
Looking ahead to 2028, Vice President-elect and Ohio Sen. JD Vance may have a strong position for the Republican nomination, but it will not be handed to him easily. A contested primary is expected, with candidates from various backgrounds vying for the nomination.
As for myself, I am not considering a presidential run in 2028. My focus is on returning to the private sector to pursue business opportunities and engage in media ventures. While I do not rule out any future political endeavors, a presidential run in 2028 is not currently on my radar.
Supporting Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy’s proposal for a “Department of Government Efficiency” is crucial for improving governance. By pushing for a balanced budget and addressing entitlement reforms, lasting change can be achieved with the support of political figures like Musk and Trump.
The debate over daylight saving time, whether to make it permanent or abolish it altogether, is less important than ending the practice of changing the clocks twice a year. The focus should be on eliminating the disruption caused by clock changes, regardless of the specific approach taken.
In conclusion, New Hampshire serves as a model for balancing abortion rights with necessary restrictions, and criticism within the Republican Party is essential for accountability. Looking ahead to 2028, a contested primary is expected, and efforts to improve government efficiency and address issues like daylight saving time are ongoing priorities.