Former Senator John E. Sununu Weighs 2026 Senate Campaign in New Hampshire

Former Senator John E. Sununu Weighs 2026 Senate Campaign in New Hampshire

EXCLUSIVE — Nearly two decades have passed since former Senator John E. Sununu appeared on a ballot, but he may soon re-enter the political arena. The New Hampshire Republican is contemplating a run for the state’s open Senate seat in 2026, confident in his ability to win.

In a recent interview, Sununu declared, “I’m sure that if we put together a strong team, this race can be won. This is a race I know I can win. More importantly, it’s a role where I know I can make a difference for New Hampshire.” These remarks are among his most assertive comments regarding a potential Senate bid.

Potential Candidacy in a Competitive Race

Sununu, who stated he will announce his decision in October, recognizes the competitive nature of the race to succeed retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen. He believes it is a winnable contest for the right candidate who embodies New Hampshire’s values over the values dictated by Washington.

Interestingly, despite previously labeling President Donald Trump a “loser” in an opinion piece last year, Sununu could gain Trump’s backing if he decides to run. A national Republican familiar with the dynamics of the Senate race in New Hampshire shared insight with Fox News Digital, stating, “President Trump appreciates winners and understands that John E. Sununu puts this race on the map for Republicans.”

Political History and Dynamics

Sununu, who served as a three-term representative, has a notable political history, having defeated then-Governor Shaheen in the 2002 Senate election. However, he lost to Shaheen in their rematch in 2008. With Shaheen announcing her decision not to seek re-election next year, Republicans are eager to flip this seat. A key contender for the Democratic nomination is four-term Representative Chris Pappas.

Sununu has spent nearly two decades working in the private sector and now appears ready to re-engage with the political landscape. He conveyed his sentiments about the significance of his potential candidacy: “This is an incredibly important race. It’s an incredibly important time for the country, and I feel it might be the right time to step up.”

Input from Voters

As Sununu contemplates his political future, various individuals from New Hampshire have reached out to him, urging a Senate run. He emphasized the need for a representative who truly understands and advocates for the state’s interests: “They know how vital it is that New Hampshire has the right kind of voice in Washington, someone who will stand up for our state, someone who won’t just be a rubber stamp for anyone else, but will represent New Hampshire every single day.”

Support from National Republican Figures

High-profile Republicans have also approached Sununu regarding a possible Senate bid. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has discussed the potential campaign with him, as has former Senator Cory Gardner, the chair of the Senate Leadership Fund, which supports Senate Republicans. These conversations suggest optimism among national Republicans concerning Sununu’s candidacy.

A Legacy in New Hampshire Politics

Sununu carries a distinguished legacy in New Hampshire politics; his father, John H. Sununu, served as governor and later as chief of staff under President George H.W. Bush. Furthermore, his younger brother, Chris Sununu, currently holds the governorship, having won re-election to four two-year terms.

As the Republican Party has evolved since Sununu last ran for office, the influence of Trump’s America First agenda has reshaped its identity. This raises questions about the space for a traditional fiscal conservative like Sununu within the current GOP framework. Sununu contended that effective leadership and good decision-making transcend political trends: “Standing up for your state, standing up for your neighbors and your friends, and the things that make New Hampshire strong never goes out of style. Being an effective voice never goes out of style.”

Challenges Ahead

Sununu’s past criticisms of Trump may complicate his path if he chooses to enter a Republican primary field that includes former Senator Scott Brown and state Senator Dan Innis. Both candidates are vocal supporters of the former president.

Sununu, along with then-Governor Chris Sununu, endorsed Nikki Haley for the 2024 New Hampshire Republican presidential primary, creating a potential conflict within the current political landscape. In a recent op-ed, Sununu referred to Trump as a loser, potentially impacting perceptions of his candidacy among Trump’s strong backers.

Brown has pointed out Sununu’s previous positions on Trump, labeling him as the original “Never Trumper,” implying that Sununu may need to clarify his stance if he pursues the nomination. Meanwhile, Innis champions his own pro-Trump credentials as superior in the race.

Winning the Primary

When asked about navigating a Republican primary shaped by support for Trump, Sununu stated, “The real question is, can you be effective? Can you work with other members of Congress? Can you work with this White House? Can you provide the type of leadership it takes to get things done? And I know I can do that.”

He expressed confidence in his ability to handle the rigors of a primary campaign, noting, “If there’s a primary, I’ve seen them before. I’m very comfortable with where we are today, and over the next few weeks, I’ll continue to gather perspectives, put together a strong team, ensure we have a clear message, and make a decision in October.”

Although Trump has yet to endorse any candidate, his eventual backing could prove pivotal in the primary battle. Reports earlier this year indicated that Trump had encouraged Chris Sununu to run after leaving office, demonstrating his interest in the dynamics of the New Hampshire political landscape.

Conclusion: A Cautiously Optimistic Future

The national Republican strategist who spoke under anonymity noted Sununu’s potential to fundraise and engage effectively with the unique political fabric of New Hampshire. This could position him well against Chris Pappas in the upcoming election.

Sununu himself voiced a desire for broad support, including from Trump, while emphasizing that his focus remains squarely on New Hampshire voters. Ultimately, his decisions in the coming months will shape not only his political future but potentially the landscape of New Hampshire politics for years to come.