U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg (R-Rye) is throwing his support behind former Gov. John H. Sununu's bid to become the next chairman of the New Hampshire Republican Party.

Current New Hampshire Republican Chairman Fergus Cullen announced yesterday that he will not run for another term and is now supporting Sununu's decision to run for the position.

"Governor Sununu has been a key player in New Hampshire politics for over 25 years.  He will be a strong voice to promote core Republican values of lower taxes, smaller government and common-sense, pro-growth policies that keep New Hampshire a great place to live, work and raise a family," Gregg said in a statement.  "John is an effective and recognized voice that will further unite us as a party and offer clear alternatives to a tax-and-spend agenda that threatens the quality of life we have come to enjoy in our state."

Gregg also commended Cullen for his efforts working with the state Republicans.

"I also want to take this opportunity to thank Fergus Cullen for his extraordinarily hard work and commitment to the Republican Party in New Hampshire," Cullen said.  "Fergus had the unenviable task of taking the reins of an underfunded State Party that was facing significant challenges, but through his dedication put our party on a positive path forward.  Kathy and I thank Fergus for his service to our party, and support Governor Sununu in his bid for the chairmanship."