We at the New England Council just spent some Zoom time with New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu. He said, “there is no doubt about a COVID-19 resurgence” in the fall, fueled by “the universities returning and the colder weather that helps viruses spread.” “You can count on it,” he said, but added that “we’ll be smarter and better able to handle it.”
He lauded Governors Baker (MA) and Cuomo (NY) for the good work they’ve done leading through COVID-19, adding that “I don’t always have nice things to say about Andy.” He said their performance helps nearby New Hampshire stay on top of the virus.
On the lack of clarity and support from the Federal Government, as with most governors of both parties who feel they are on their own individually and collectively in managing COVID -19, Sununu said, “The Federal Government will do what it does, whatever that is. I hope somebody will let me know.”
He emphasized the need for widespread broadband, too. “We have a lot of broadband access, but not of the highest quality” - especially in rural areas. Yes, New Hampshire is very rural, but Sununu buttressed the point by speaking about what he called growing “deurbanization.” He spoke anecdotally about people leaving cities and heading to exurban and rural locations who can, nonetheless, work from home. He blamed COVID-19 and “the riots,” which seems a bit too convenient a talking point. Some people will leave cities, for sure, but don’t hold your breath waiting for any mass exodus.
He lauded Governors Baker (MA) and Cuomo (NY) for the good work they’ve done leading through COVID-19, adding that “I don’t always have nice things to say about Andy.” He said their performance helps nearby New Hampshire stay on top of the virus.
On the lack of clarity and support from the Federal Government, as with most governors of both parties who feel they are on their own individually and collectively in managing COVID -19, Sununu said, “The Federal Government will do what it does, whatever that is. I hope somebody will let me know.”
He emphasized the need for widespread broadband, too. “We have a lot of broadband access, but not of the highest quality” - especially in rural areas. Yes, New Hampshire is very rural, but Sununu buttressed the point by speaking about what he called growing “deurbanization.” He spoke anecdotally about people leaving cities and heading to exurban and rural locations who can, nonetheless, work from home. He blamed COVID-19 and “the riots,” which seems a bit too convenient a talking point. Some people will leave cities, for sure, but don’t hold your breath waiting for any mass exodus.
Gov. Sununu (bottom) and NEC President Jim Brett.