Wendy Hunt President & CEO Greater Nashua Chamber of Commerce

New Hampshire consistently ranks among the top states for business success–and for attracting new ones. Many of those businesses credit our state’s small, responsive, and business-friendly government. Add in our low unemployment rate and high quality of life rankings, and it’s clear: New Hampshire is doing something right. So why, exactly, is there an effort to oust the person leading the charge?

As you may have seen recently in the business sections of New Hampshire’s newspapers, magazines, or websites, the re-appointment of Taylor Caswell, Commissioner of the Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) is in jeopardy. Governor Ayotte has renominated Taylor Caswell for another four-year term as Commissioner, which must be confirmed by 3 of 5 of New Hampshire’s Executive Council. As of right now, Caswell does not have their support. Why does it matter? Read on.

First appointed by Governor Chris Sununu in 2017, Caswell’s renomination by Governor Ayotte–a decisive move that underscores her confidence in his proven effectiveness and her commitment to maintaining continuity in a role that is crucial to the prosperity of New Hampshire’s businesses and workforce.

In both my current role and in my previous position as CEO of the Greater Merrimack-Souhegan Valley Chamber of Commerce (2017-March 2021), I’ve had the opportunity to work directly with Commissioner Caswell on a variety of initiatives focused on strengthening New Hampshire’s economy. From the pre-COVID years through the challenges of the pandemic and into the ongoing recovery, Commissioner Caswell has demonstrated exceptional leadership. He played a critical role in connecting the BEA with chambers statewide through regular bi-weekly meetings, ensuring efficient dissemination of resources and timely feedback from the business community.

That spirit of collaboration continues today. Our Chamber, along with others across the state, still meets regularly with Commissioner Caswell and his senior team. His openness, responsiveness, and accessibility are truly exceptional–especially given the wide range of divisions he oversees, including Economic Development, Travel and Tourism, Planning and Development, Outdoor Recreation, and Workforce Development.

Commissioner Caswell’s dedication to New Hampshire’s businesses and non-profits is evident in both his accomplishments and his ongoing commitment to innovative solutions. His continued service will undoubtedly benefit businesses across the state–large and small, in every sector.

In short, Commissioner Caswell is a strong advocate and invaluable partner to the New Hampshire business community, and I wholeheartedly support his renomination. I am concerned about the potential loss of Commissioner Caswell and the negative impact it might have on NH’s economy and businesses. To me, it’s not about politics, it is about the health of NH businesses and nonprofits.