Mayor Craig will not seek fourth term: ‘Time for new leadership’

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Joyce Craig on Jan. 4, 2022. Photo/Andrew Sylvia

MANCHESTER, N.H. – On Thursday, Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig announced that she will not seek a fourth term as the mayor of New Hampshire’s largest city.

Craig was first elected in 2017 and became Manchester’s first female mayor.

“As a fourth-generation resident, serving as the Mayor of Manchester has been one of the greatest honors of my life. After discussions with family and friends, I’ve decided not to seek re-election,” she said. “I’m thankful for the trust residents placed in me, and I’ll always be a champion for Manchester. I believe now is the right time for new leadership to build off the progress we have made over the past six years and start the next chapter for Manchester. I am excited for the future of our city and will consider the best ways to remain involved with our community and in public service.”

The filing period for candidates seeking to run for mayor this fall will take place from July 10 to July 21.

So far one candidate has come forward, Jay Ruais, who announced his intention to run for mayor on Feb. 22.

About this Author

Andrew Sylvia

Assistant EditorManchester Ink Link

Born and raised in the Granite State, Andrew Sylvia has written approximately 10,000 pieces over his career for outlets across Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont. On top of that, he's a licensed notary and licensed to sell property, casualty and life insurance, he's been a USSF trained youth soccer and futsal referee for the past six years and he can name over 60 national flags in under 60 seconds according to that flag game app he has on his phone, which makes sense because he also has a bachelor's degree in geography (like Michael Jordan). He can also type over 100 words a minute on a good day.