AI Generated Image
NH Supreme Court Chief Justice MacDonald resigns
WMUR • • nation
Key Points:
- New Hampshire Supreme Court Justice Gordon MacDonald resigned following an investigation by the Judicial Conduct Committee into his handling of personnel decisions involving Dianne Martin, who was laid off and quickly rehired in a new position with financial benefits.
- MacDonald admitted to violating three provisions of the Code of Judicial Conduct, including creating an appearance of impropriety, bypassing required hiring procedures, and failing to exercise impartial administrative appointment powers.
- He denied rumors of an affair with Martin, stating their relationship was strictly professional, and acknowledged accusations of yelling at other justices.
- Governor Kelly Ayotte accepted MacDonald's immediate resignation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public trust in the Judicial Branch.
- MacDonald had been on medical leave since late July, during which time associate justices assumed his administrative duties to ensure continuity of court operations.
