Governor Maggie Hassan she will nominate former Democratic state senator and Nashua attorney Joe Foster as the state’s next attorney general.
“The role of Attorney General in protecting and ensuring justice for the people of New Hampshire is one of the highest responsibilities in our state,” Hassan said in a press release Monday. “I am confident that Joe’s judgment and experience make him the ideal candidate to serve as New Hampshire’s chief legal and law enforcement officer.
Current Attorney General Michael Delaney announced last month that he was stepping down and would not seek another term.
Foster served as vice chair of Gov. John Lynch’s gaming study commission. A 2010 report issued by the commission recommended that a "decision to expand gaming must be based on solid analysis, rather than immediate fiscal, political, or other pressures."
Hassan has included $80 million in licensing fees from expanded gambling in her budget.
Foster served as a state senator for New Hampshire’s 13th district from 2002 to 2008. He took on the role of majority leader in 2007. He also chaired the Senate Judiciary Committee from 2004 to 2008. He served as a state representative from 1995 to 1998.
He received his J.D. from George Washington University in 1984 and his B.A. from Tufts University in 1981.
“I am profoundly honored by the trust Governor Hassan has placed in me to lead the New Hampshire Department of Justice as Attorney General,” Foster said in the press release. “If I am confirmed, I will work hard every day to protect public safety and ensure justice for all of our citizens.”
The nomination must be approved by the Executive Council.
