Former Hill Journalist Weighs Congressional Run as a Democrat in New Hampshire

Hanna Trudo Eyes Congressional Seat in New Hampshire

Hanna Trudo, who previously served as the senior political correspondent at The Hill, is contemplating a run for Congress as a Democrat in New Hampshire’s 1st District. This development was first reported by Politico.

Returning to her roots, the New Hampshire native shared her thoughts with Politico Playbook, revealing her decision to move back home followed the announcement from incumbent Democratic Representative Chris Pappas about his Senate campaign.

Trudo confirmed her political ambitions on social media, stating, “As a 4th generation Granite Stater, I take our state motto in N.H., Live Free or Die, seriously. Under Donald Trump, we are no longer free. Dems need to stop chasing the magical land of bipartisanship. We need to fight NOW.”

A Growing List of Media Figures Entering Politics

Trudo is not alone in considering a congressional run as a Democrat. Notably, CNN political analyst John Avlon pursued a similar path in 2024, winning the Democratic nomination for New York’s 1st Congressional District but ultimately losing in the general election.

Personal Background Shapes Political Ambitions

In a memo detailing her potential candidacy, Trudo opened up about her working-class upbringing. Raised by a single mother in Hillsborough County, she experienced the challenges many families face today.

“Like many families, we received heating assistance at times to get through our freezing winters,” she recalled. “While my mom was not able to go to college or buy a home due to the high cost of living, she worked tirelessly as a public school Title 1 reading aide. She learned hard work in the American diner that my great-grandparents ran 84 years ago in our state capital after emigrating from Greece.”

Journalistic Experience as a Valuable Asset

Trudo believes her experience as a journalist provides her with essential skills that would serve her well in higher office. She described herself as a journalist disillusioned with the repeated narrative of Democrats faltering against Republicans.

“I’m used to disrupting the status quo in D.C.,” she emphasized. “I’ve lived it, I’ve covered it, and I know how to beat the odds.”

Call for Change Within the Democratic Party

Expressing concern over the direction of the Democratic Party, Trudo advocates for a significant shift in strategy. She noted, “I haven’t poll tested my pitch. I’m simply writing with the same fire I’ve spit for the past decade: Democrats must be better.”

She has named key Trump administration advisors as focal points for critical discussions and policy reevaluations.

A Focus on Authenticity and Action

Affirming her commitment to the state’s motto, Trudo remarked, “I left my career in the media because this isn’t objective for me. Democrats must elect new leaders ready to form a disruptive opposition party to Republicans. We don’t need platitudes about reaching across the aisle or compromising.”

Trudo’s Journalistic Legacy and Future Steps

Trudo’s final article with The Hill appeared on March 7, marking the end of her tenure there. Her professional journey has also taken her through notable outlets like The Daily Beast and Politico.

If she decides to pursue her congressional aspirations, Trudo will enter a race already featuring Marine Corps veteran and former Obama administration official Maura Sullivan, who announced her candidacy in April.

Previous Campaign Landscape in New Hampshire

In 2022, Karoline Leavitt, former press secretary under Donald Trump, made her attempt at the same congressional seat. While she secured victory in the primary, she ultimately lost to Pappas in the general election.

Leavitt currently serves as the youngest White House press secretary at just 27 years old, further highlighting the evolving political landscape in New Hampshire.