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NH Chief Justice MacDonald announces resignation; ethics probe loomed

New Hampshire Public Radio • September 15, 2026 • nation

Key Points:

New Hampshire Supreme Court Chief Justice Gordon MacDonald resigned immediately after admitting to violating the state's judicial code of conduct related to orchestrating a payout to a close ally, Dianne Martin, last year.
The Judicial Conduct Committee found MacDonald failed to promote public confidence, perform duties competently, and avoided favoritism in Martin's layoff and rehiring, which allowed her to cash out nearly $50,000 in accrued benefits.
The investigation was prompted by a whistleblower and NHPR’s reporting last October, which revealed irregular personnel maneuvers and led to an ethics inquiry beginning in November 2025.
Despite no criminal wrongdoing found by the Attorney General’s office, the handling of Martin’s employment violated human resources best practices and raised concerns about impartial administration of justice.
Since MacDonald’s medical leave began in late July, Justice Patrick Donovan has assumed chief justice duties, and it remains unclear when a replacement will be nominated by Governor Kelly Ayotte.

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