Executive Councilor John Stephen Hospitalized After Cardiac Event In Florida

By NH Journal

New Hampshire Executive Councilor John Stephen, a Republican representing District 4, suffered a serious cardiac event while jogging in Florida on Sunday, prompting an outpouring of support from colleagues and the community as he undergoes treatment.

Stephen, 63, experienced the apparent heart attack during a run, according to reports and a family statement.

In a post on Stephen’s X account, his family confirmed the incident: “As many of you have already heard, John suffered a cardiac event while out for a run on Sunday and is receiving excellent medical care while he works toward recovery. The Stephen family asks that you keep John in your prayers.”

Stephen remains in serious condition but is showing signs of progress, according to fellow Executive Councilor Joe Kenney, who discussed the situation in a radio interview on Jack Heath’s show. “Every day that goes by, a lot of prayer,” Kenney said, describing Stephen as a “tremendous multitasker” and a dedicated public servant who is “constantly thinking about how to make the next thing better.”

Gov. Kelly Ayotte also shared her support in a post on X, stating: “Joe and I are praying for my friend John Stephen, his wife Jenny, and the entire Stephen family. We’re wishing him a speedy recovery so he can get back to doing what he loves — serving the people of our great state.” Ayotte’s message echoed sentiments from others in New Hampshire’s political circles, where Stephen is known for his extensive public service background.

A Manchester native, Stephen was elected to his first term on the Executive Council in 2024, succeeding Ted Gatsas in District 4, which includes Manchester and surrounding areas. His career includes roles as commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, deputy commissioner of the Department of Safety, assistant attorney general and assistant Hillsborough County attorney. He is also the founder of the Stephen Group, a health care consulting firm based in Manchester.

Colleagues highlighted Stephen’s energy and commitment. Kenney praised his effective communication and knowledge, noting recent collaborations on issues like bail reform following a high-profile murder case in Berlin, New Hampshire, as well as public health funding and correctional conditions. “He’s truly a New Hampshire guy from a New Hampshire family, and he does tremendous work,” Kenney said.

Former Manchester Mayor Bob Baines, a Democrat, called Stephen “one of the good guys of politics” and expressed hopes for a full recovery.

Stephen and his wife, Jenny, have two daughters, Nicole and Hannah. The family has requested privacy during this time but appreciates the widespread prayers and well-wishes.

Updates on Stephen’s condition are expected as his recovery progresses. The five-member Executive Council advises the governor on nominations and contracts and meets Wednesday at the State House.

This story was originally published by the NH Journal, an online news publication dedicated to providing fair, unbiased reporting on, and analysis of, political news of interest to New Hampshire. For more stories from the NH Journal, visit NHJournal.com.