Rep. Chris Pappas Set to Announce Bid for New Hampshire Senate Seat
The four-term congressman is preparing to run for retiring Sen. Jeanne Shaheen's seat, positioning himself as a leading Democratic contender in a pivotal 2026 race.
- Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH) has informed colleagues of his intent to announce his Senate campaign in early April, giving him a head start in fundraising and campaigning.
- Sen. Jeanne Shaheen's retirement has created an open seat, making New Hampshire a key battleground for control of the Senate in the 2026 election.
- Pappas has been engaging with constituents through his 'Grounded in Granite' tour, emphasizing healthcare issues, including opposition to proposed Medicaid cuts.
- Potential Democratic challengers, including Rep. Maggie Goodlander and former Rep. Annie Kuster, remain undecided about entering the race.
- Republicans are eyeing former Gov. Chris Sununu as a potential candidate and are optimistic about flipping Pappas' House seat if he vacates it.