New Hampshire voters have spoken. Former Senator John E. Sununu won the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate with almost 70% of the vote, defeating former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown, who earned about 25%. President Donald Trump, who personally recruited Sununu, praised the victory as a key step toward restoring a strong, constitutionally‑limited government in the Granite State.
Democratic nominee secured early lead
On the Democratic side, Rep. Chris Pappas emerged as the clear front‑runner, capturing 62% of the vote in a four‑candidate race after the Associated Press called the contest with roughly 25% of precincts reporting. Pappas’ nearest rival, Karishma Manzur of the Democratic Socialists of America, earned 36%, while the remaining contenders fell into single‑digit percentages.
What the race means for New Hampshire
The open Senate seat, being vacated by three‑term Democrat Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, has become a focal point for both parties. Republicans view the race as a chance to flip a seat held by Democrats since 2008, a goal highlighted by the National Republican Senatorial Committee’s toss‑up designation. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report, however, still rates the contest as “leaning Democrat.”
Trump’s endorsement and Republican strategy
President Trump’s endorsement of Sununu underscores the administration’s commitment to securing a Senate majority. Senate Leadership Fund Executive Director Alex Latcham said the organization will “spend every day highlighting John E. Sununu’s positive vision for New Hampshire while exposing the corruption, self‑dealing, and radical record of Washington insider Chris Pappas.” The Trump administration views the New Hampshire race as one of several pivotal contests that will determine the GOP’s ability to advance its agenda on the national stage.
Democratic criticism of Sununu
New Hampshire Democratic Party Chairman Ray Buckley labeled Sununu a “hand‑picked” Trump candidate, accusing him of being a “pro‑Trump puppet.” Buckley also suggested Sununu is “out of touch” with voters who are weary of “Trump’s war with Iran, toxic tariffs, and health‑care cuts that keep driving costs up.” While these criticisms reflect partisan disagreement, Sununu’s campaign emphasizes his experience and family legacy in New Hampshire politics.
Other races on the ballot
In related contests, Sen. Shaheen’s daughter, Stefany Shaheen, continued her bid for the Democratic nomination in the 1st Congressional District, trailing former Marine Maria Sullivan by a narrow margin. In the GOP primary for the same district, Trump‑endorsed newcomer Anthony DiLorenzo, a car‑dealership owner, defeated business‑owner Hollie Noveletsky and state Rep. Brian Cole.
Governor Kelly Ayotte also secured the Republican nomination for a second two‑year term after fending off two intra‑party challengers, setting up a general‑election showdown with Democrat Cinde Warmington.
Looking ahead
With the primary results in hand, both parties are gearing up for a vigorous general‑election campaign. Republicans will likely lean on Sununu’s experience and Trump’s endorsement to appeal to voters seeking a return to limited government and strong national defense. Democrats will focus on Pappas’ legislative record and his promise to prioritize New Hampshire’s needs over partisan politics.
Voters can expect intensified outreach, fundraising, and advertising from both sides as November approaches. The outcome will not only affect New Hampshire’s representation in Washington but also influence the broader balance of power in the U.S. Senate.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
