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EXCLUSIVE — In a strategic move aimed at capturing a crucial Senate seat, former ambassador and senator Scott Brown announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination in New Hampshire on Wednesday. With an eye on bolstering the state’s political landscape, he emphasized the need to secure America’s future and deliver tangible outcomes for local families.
Brown articulated his motivations in a campaign launch video, stating, “My life has been the American story, but I worry about what America is going to look like for my four grandchildren — and all of yours.” This message resonates particularly amid growing concerns over national stability.
As Massachusetts’ former senator and U.S. ambassador to New Zealand during Donald Trump’s presidency, Brown emerges as the first prominent Republican to enter the race for the 2026 Senate seat vacated by longtime Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen. His entry underscores the competitive nature of New Hampshire politics.
Experts predict a hotly contested and costly battle for this Senate seat, a central focus for Republican efforts to reclaim control. Along with Georgia and Michigan, New Hampshire stands out as a key target for GOP strategists looking to enhance their current 53-47 majority in the Senate.
While Republicans hold complete authority over New Hampshire’s state government, the past decade has seen the state maintain an all-Democratic congressional delegation. Brown pointedly criticized local Democrats in an interview with Fox News Digital, stating that “they’re just really out of touch with the values of New Hampshire. … I think we can do better.” His comments highlight a growing sentiment among voters seeking change.
Additionally, he stated, “I’m looking to help save America and help protect our New Hampshire advantage,” a reference to the state’s favorable economic and cultural characteristics which have historically attracted both businesses and residents.
In his campaign announcement, Brown did not shy away from addressing national issues. He took aim at President Joe Biden and local Representative Chris Pappas, who appears to hold a significant lead in the Democratic primary. Brown accused them of exacerbating problems such as inflation, border security, and rising crime rates, saying, “Chris Pappas has stood with Joe Biden every step of the way, from opening the border to driving up the cost of everything. It’s time for a change.” This attack positions Brown as a proactive alternative to the current Democratic leadership.
Over the past months, Brown has frequented Washington, D.C., to engage with Republican leaders and National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair Tim Scott of South Carolina. He expressed his continued support for Trump, stating, “I support him. I would love his support,” recognizing the influence the former president has in GOP circles.
In his announcement video, he lauded Trump’s foreign policy decisions, in particular mentioning a recent military strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities. Brown stated, “Trump’s decision was brilliant, and he should be commended,” a comment intended to align himself closely with the former president’s policies.
Meanwhile, the New Hampshire Democratic Party was quick to counter Brown’s campaign launch, labeling him a “Trump loyalist” and criticizing his track record on key issues, including abortion rights. This response illustrates the fierce political rivalries expected to define the upcoming election cycle.
Though Brown is the first significant candidate to enter the race, potential challengers may emerge. Republican businessman and attorney Phil Taub, known for his Swim with a Mission charity supporting veterans, is considering a bid alongside state Senator Dan Innis and businessman Walter McFarlane, creating a potentially crowded GOP primary.
Brown first made headlines in 2010 by winning a special election in Massachusetts to complete the late Democratic Senator Ted Kennedy’s term. However, after losing to Elizabeth Warren in 2012, he relocated to New Hampshire, where he has familial ties dating back to colonial times. He ran for Senate in New Hampshire in 2014, narrowly losing to Shaheen.
After a series of successful events known as “No BS backyard BBQs” in which he hosted nearly all Republican presidential candidates in 2016, Brown pledged his support to Trump as the New Hampshire primary approached. Following Trump’s victory, he was appointed U.S. ambassador to New Zealand, serving for four years before returning to New Hampshire.
Brown’s active political engagement continued as he supported his wife Gail in her congressional bid in 2022 and maintained his involvement with future Republican candidates. In May 2023, he confirmed his interest in running for Senate again, stating, “Of course,” indicating an eagerness to re-enter the political arena.
The 65-year-old is not only politically active but has also maintained a vibrant lifestyle, participating in nine triathlons last year and performing regularly as the lead singer and guitarist for his band, Scott Brown and the Diplomats. This energetic lifestyle complements his commitment to a robust campaign strategy as he travels extensively throughout New Hampshire, meeting with constituents and local Republican groups.
Reflecting on the differences in this campaign compared to his previous one, Brown remarked, “It’s different than when I ran before. I’ve now had the opportunity to go to places that, quite frankly, I didn’t have time to do during my 2014 campaign. I’ve been meeting with people, meeting with everybody.”
This proactive approach underscores his determination to connect with voters and secure their support as he embarks on this challenging yet pivotal political journey.
