Charles “Chuck” Morse served as acting governor of New Hampshire from January 3, 2017, to January 5, 2017.

Morse is a Republican from Salem currently serving his fifth term representing District 22. He was elected the 128th President of the state Senate in September of 2013, a position he still serves in today. Since the founding of the Senate in 1784, he is the fourth lawmaker from Salem to be given this distinction by his colleagues.

Due to the fact New Hampshire does not elect a lieutenant governor, the Senate President serves as “acting governor” whenever the governor is out of state or otherwise unable to perform the duties of the office.

Morse was re-elected to the Senate in 2010, 2012, and 2014 having previously served from 2002-2006. He previously chaired the Finance Committee, guiding them through three budgets, was Vice Chairman of Transportation and has served on both the Capital Budget and the Public and Municipal Affairs committees. Morse currently serves on both the Finance and Ways & Means Committees.

Prior to his service with the Senate, Morse spent two terms in the New Hampshire House of Representatives representing Salem and Windham. In 2006, he was the Republican nominee for Executive Council for the state’s Third District. He has also served his local community as both town moderator and selectman.

Morse earned his bachelor’s degree from Plymouth State University. He lives in Salem with his wife, Susan, and their daughter Emma.