Sununu Opts Out of 2026 NH Senate Race

Chris Sununu, the former Republican governor of New Hampshire, has announced he will not run for the U.S. Senate in 2026, despite receiving an endorsement from President Donald Trump. Sununu cited personal reasons, stating that a Senate run is 'not right' for him and his family. This decision comes as a surprise to many, as he was considered a strong contender for the seat being vacated by retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen. With Sununu out of the race, attention shifts to other potential candidates, such as former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown on the Republican side and Democratic Congressman Chris Pappas, who has already launched his campaign. Sununu emphasized his intention to remain an influential voice without holding office, underscoring his belief in the importance of a bipartisan approach for New Hampshire. Trump's endorsement of Sununu followed a meeting at the White House, where they discussed the Senate race's potential.