Rose sworn in as NH economic development chief

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) -- New Hampshire's new commissioner of the Department of Resources and Economic Development said it was fitting that he was sworn in on Monday, not because it was April Fools' Day but because it also was baseball's opening day.

Jeffrey Rose of Goffstown was sworn in by Gov. Maggie Hassan to lead the state agency that is responsible for forest and lands, parks and recreation, travel and tourism and economic development.

"I'm a huge fan of baseball, and the optimism and renewal and hope for all that lies forward is kind of what opening day is all about, and it's with that enthusiasm that I approach today and this new job and new role," he said. "I look forward to doing wonderful things on behalf of the state of New Hampshire."

Rose most recently worked as head of public affairs for defense contractor BAE System's Electronic Systems sector. He also has served as chair of the Greater Nashua Chamber of Commerce and previously worked for former U.S. Sen. Bob Smith and former U.S. Reps. John E. Sununu and Jeb Bradley, all Republicans.

Hassan, a Democrat, said Monday that there is a lot of work to do but she has confidence in the new commissioner.

"I think Jeff already knows this, but I think he will discover that the people of New Hampshire are the best resources we have, and they want this to work," she said.

Rose succeeds George Bald, who retired last fall after a second stint as DRED commissioner.