As New Hampshire heads toward the 2026 midterm elections, voters need clear information on the policy positions of the candidates vying for governor, U.S. Senate and both congressional districts. Below is a straightforward guide to the issues that matter most to Granite State residents.

Governor’s Race: Core Issues

All four gubernatorial candidates addressed three high‑profile topics:

• Housing affordability: Candidates emphasized expanding affordable housing, reducing regulatory barriers, and encouraging private‑sector development to help families find homes without excessive cost.
• Data centers and broadband: Recognizing New Hampshire’s growing tech sector, each candidate pledged to support responsible data‑center expansion while ensuring broadband access reaches rural communities.
• Healthcare access: The discussion centered on preserving market‑based options, expanding telehealth, and protecting patients’ ability to choose providers.

U.S. Senate Candidates: National‑Level Priorities

Senate hopefuls highlighted three areas that affect both New Hampshire and the nation:

• Energy policy: Candidates called for a balanced approach that supports domestic energy production, safeguards the environment, and reduces reliance on foreign oil.
• War in Iran: All candidates advocated for a strong diplomatic stance combined with a robust national defense to protect American interests and regional stability.
• Immigration enforcement: Emphasis was placed on securing the border, enforcing existing laws, and ensuring legal immigration processes remain fair and efficient.

1st Congressional District: Local Concerns

Representatives seeking the 1st District seat focused on three voter‑centric topics:

• Money in politics: Candidates pledged to support transparency measures and oppose undue influence from special interests.
• Unemployment: Proposals included incentives for small businesses, workforce training programs, and tax relief to spur job growth.
• Bipartisanship: Each candidate promised to work across the aisle to deliver results for constituents, emphasizing practical solutions over partisan rhetoric.

2nd Congressional District: Emerging Issues

The 2nd District race featured discussion of three forward‑looking topics:

• Tariffs and trade: Candidates defended fair trade policies that protect American manufacturers while keeping consumer prices reasonable.
• Impeachment inquiries: While acknowledging ongoing investigations, candidates stressed the importance of due process and focusing on policy outcomes for New Hampshire.
• Artificial intelligence: Recognizing rapid technological change, candidates called for responsible AI development, workforce retraining, and safeguards against misuse.

How to Use This Guide

Before heading to the polls, review each candidate’s stance on the issues that matter most to you and your family. Local news outlets, candidate websites, and town‑hall meetings provide additional detail. Remember that voting is a fundamental expression of individual liberty, and an informed electorate strengthens our communities and the nation.

For the latest updates on candidate events, ballot deadlines and polling locations, stay tuned to HyperLocal Loop and your trusted local media partners.

Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.