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 an 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 an interview on Jack Heath’s radio show Tuesday morning. “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. 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, N.H., 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.
Granite Staters from across the political spectrum wished Stephen well.
Ray Buckley, chair of the New Hampshire Democratic Party, posted “Sending good wishes to Johnny and the entire Stephen family.” Jim O’Connell, Stephen’s Democratic competition in the 2024 general election, added “The O’Connells will be praying for John and his family tonight.”
Steve Marchand, a former Democratic candidate for Governor, told the tale of his own heart attacks, Senator Jeanne Shaheen and her daughter Stefany both expressed their well wishes on Facebook, and sources tell NHJournal that Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander reached out directly to the family. Former Manchester Mayor Bob Baines, a Democrat, called Stephen “one of the good guys of politics” and expressed hopes for a full recovery.
Stephen’s four colleagues on the Executive Council, Joe Kenney, Karen Liot Hill, Janet Stevens, and Dave Wheeler, have been keeping close tabs on Stephen’s progress and look forward to his return, they say. Wednesday’s meeting will certainly have a different feel from the rest of the meetings this year, where Stephen has inquired of commissioners more than most on spending items before the body.
Stephen and his wife, Jenny, have two daughters, Nicole and Hannah, and an almost one-year-old grandson. 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 on Wednesday at the State House.
