Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu Considers Senate Bid As Key Democratic Seat Opens

Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu Considers Senate Bid As Key Democratic Seat Opens

EXCLUSIVE: NEWFIELDS, N.H. — Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu is actively engaged in discussions with national Republican leaders regarding a potential run for the U.S. Senate in 2026. This comes in light of retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen’s announcement that she will not seek re-election.

Sununu, well-known for his frequent appearances on cable news and Sunday talk shows, stated in an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital that he plans to make a decision about his candidacy within the coming weeks.

Once a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, Sununu expressed confidence about garnering the former president’s support if he chooses to enter the Senate race.

Senator Shaheen, who holds the unique distinction of being the first woman to serve as both a governor and a U.S. senator, has been a significant Democratic figure in New Hampshire. Her announcement to retire has prompted speculation about the future of her seat in this key swing state.

Sununu’s Confidence to Flip the Seat

Sununu, who has been elected and re-elected to four consecutive two-year terms as governor, remains optimistic about his candidacy. “I have no doubt I can win,” he asserted. Political analysts have already identified Shaheen’s seat as a prime target for the GOP as they look to expand their hold in the Senate.

Even prior to Shaheen’s retirement news, Sununu’s name circulated as a leading contender for the Republican nomination. The GOP senses a ripe opportunity in the New Hampshire Senate race in 2026, coupled with other potential pickups in states such as Michigan and Georgia.

A Shift in Sununu’s Stance

Sununu’s recent remarks mark a notable shift from his previous statements in 2022, when he expressed a firm reluctance to pursue a Senate seat. In multiple interviews last year, he ruled out any potential candidacy, stating, “Definitely ruling out running for the Senate in 2026. Yeah, definitely not on my dance card.”

However, during a recent conversation with Fox News Digital, Sununu revealed, “Some folks in New Hampshire, some folks in Washington, have asked me to really take a few weeks and think about it at this point.”

He further opened the door to a potential campaign, albeit cautiously, noting, “The door’s open, but it’s not open a lot, to be honest.” His discussions reportedly include conversations with Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, who chairs the National Republican Senatorial Committee.

Engagement with National Republican Figures

Sununu is set to meet with Scott and other Senate Republicans in Washington in the upcoming days. These engagements signal a serious consideration of his political future and align with the GOP’s interests in bolstering their Senate majority.

In 2022, Sununu faced pressure from national Republicans to challenge Democratic incumbent Senator Maggie Hassan. Ultimately, he opted to run for a fourth term as governor, which surprised many within the party.

Sununu’s Views on Washington Politics

In recent statements, Sununu has reflected on his prior criticisms of the Senate. He believes that the political process in Washington often results in stagnation. “I think Washington has been really stagnated. Hasn’t done a whole lot, doesn’t deliver,” he stated.

However, he also acknowledged a shift in dynamics with Trump back in the White House, noting that the current congressional discourse aligns more closely with his values, particularly around fiscal responsibility and governmental efficiency.

Sununu articulated his concerns about the national debt and social programs, emphasizing the need for a cohesive strategy to address these pressing issues. “We have $36 trillion in debt. It’s a very real number. You owe it. I owe it. We’re going to have a car crash in the next couple of years with Social Security going bankrupt,” he warned.

Looking Ahead: The Path to Victory

Potential Republican contenders for Shaheen’s seat are still emerging. Notably, former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown, who narrowly lost to Shaheen in 2014, is also considering a rematch in 2026. Brown has been engaging with GOP officials and discussing his potential candidacy.

Sununu’s analysis of the political landscape suggests that the Republicans have a genuine chance to flip the seat now that it is open. “It’s an open seat. It’s up for play,” he remarked, highlighting the recent successes of Republicans in statewide races.

He underscored the importance of understanding the unique political dynamics of New Hampshire, stating, “I have been trying to talk to the folks in Washington, helping them understand what New Hampshire is about, how to win here, and how to cultivate the right candidates.”

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for New Hampshire Republicans

As the political landscape continues to evolve, Sununu’s potential candidacy represents a critical juncture for New Hampshire Republicans. Whether he decides to run or not, the attention on this Senate seat underscores its significance in the broader Republican strategy for the upcoming elections.

With key figures like Sununu and Brown contemplating runs, 2026 could become a pivotal moment for the GOP in New Hampshire, determining the party’s ability to leverage shifting political tides in a competitive state.