Manchester, N.H. – In a surprising development for the 2026 U.S. Senate race, retired Brig. Gen. Don Bolduc, the Republican nominee who challenged Sen. Maggie Hassan in 2022, publicly endorsed Democratic candidate Chris Pappas on Thursday.
Veterans’ advocacy drives the endorsement
Bolduc said Pappas’ consistent work to support veterans and military families was the decisive factor in his decision. “His dedication to those who have served our country aligns with the values I fought to protect,” Bolbol Bolduc told reporters at a downtown press gathering.
Bolduc’s shift away from former allies
Since his 2022 loss, Bolduc has emerged as a vocal critic of President Donald Trump, frequently questioning the former president’s approach to national security and fiscal responsibility. While Bolduc’s criticism of the Trump administration has drawn attention from conservative circles, his endorsement of Pappas reflects a focus on issue‑based leadership rather than party loyalty.
Pappas welcomes the bipartisan support
Chris Pappas responded to the endorsement with gratitude, emphasizing the importance of unity across the political spectrum. “I appreciate Brig. Gen. Bolduc’s confidence in my record on veterans’ affairs,” Pappas said. “New Hampshire voters deserve a senator who puts service members first, regardless of party.”
Implications for the Senate race
The endorsement adds a new dimension to a campaign already featuring high‑profile visits from national figures. While Pappas has been leading in fundraising, the race remains competitive, with both parties mobilizing volunteers and resources across the state.
Political analysts note that Bolduc’s backing could sway moderate Republican voters who respect his military service and share his concerns about the current administration’s policies. However, they also caution that the endorsement may not translate into a significant shift in voter behavior, given the entrenched partisan loyalties in New Hampshire’s electorate.
Local reaction
Local veterans’ groups expressed mixed reactions. The New Hampshire Veterans Association praised Pappas for his ongoing support of veteran programs, while some conservative veterans’ clubs highlighted Bolduc’s recent criticism of President Trump as a point of contention.
Regardless of the differing viewpoints, the endorsement underscores a broader trend of candidates seeking cross‑party appeal by focusing on shared values such as service to the nation, support for families, and respect for the Constitution.
Looking ahead
As the primary season approaches, both campaigns will likely intensify outreach to key constituencies, including veterans, seniors, and working families. The endorsement of a former Republican Senate nominee by a Democratic candidate is a reminder that, in New Hampshire, policy and personal character can sometimes outweigh party labels.
Voters can expect further debates, town‑hall meetings, and campaign events in the coming weeks as the two candidates vie for the support of New Hampshire’s diverse electorate.
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
