The election of Republican Kelly Ayotte as New Hampshire’s governor means 13 women will serve as a state’s chief executive next year, breaking the record of 12 set after the 2022 elections. Governors hold powerful sway in American politics,

Thirteen women will serve as state chief executives next year, breaking the record of 12 set after the 2022 elections.

As Gov.-elect Kelly Ayotte’s new administration begins to take shape, she is tapping two high-profile leaders to head up the process of taking over the corner office at the State House in Concord.