Former Republican Senator John E. Sununu of New Hampshire is officially entering the political arena again. He announced his candidacy on Wednesday for the 2026 Senate race, aiming to replace retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen.
Sununu’s Political Comeback
With a campaign launch video, Sununu expressed concerns about the current state of Congress, describing it as “loud, dysfunctional, even angry.” He aims to bring a sense of calm and productivity back to the Senate.
Background and Previous Tenure
- Name: John E. Sununu
- State: New Hampshire
- Previous Position: U.S. Senator (served three terms)
- Notable Election: Defeated Jeanne Shaheen in 2002 but lost to her in 2008.
Sununu’s political lineage is significant. His father, John H. Sununu, was a former governor and White House Chief of Staff under President George H.W. Bush. His brother, Chris Sununu, currently serves as the governor of New Hampshire.
Competition for Nomination
Sununu’s path to the GOP nomination will not be easy. Former Ambassador and Senator Scott Brown has also entered the race. He narrowly lost to Shaheen in the 2014 Senate race after serving in Massachusetts.
Brown recently reported impressive fundraising, with approximately $1.2 million raised over three months. He has criticized Sununu for his past lack of support for prominent GOP figures like Donald Trump.
Trump’s Influence and Endorsements
Sununu’s political journey includes participation in the 2016 Republican presidential campaign as a national co-chair for John Kasich. His stance during that election, which excluded support for Trump, may affect his current campaign.
Despite past criticisms, Trump has shown some favor towards Sununu. He praised him earlier this year, suggesting he would fully support Sununu’s return to the Senate.
Key Dynamics in the Race
The dynamics of the New Hampshire Senate race are compelling. Sununu’s ability to resonate with GOP voters who are influenced by Trump remains uncertain.
Local Democrats have already begun to challenge Sununu’s motivations for returning to politics. They accuse him of prioritizing corporate interests over the needs of New Hampshire residents.
Upcoming Elections
The New Hampshire state primary is scheduled for next September. With the GOP aiming to reclaim seats, Sununu’s campaign is pivotal for the party’s strategy in swing states.
Recent trends show that while Republicans have been successful in state elections, they have not secured a Senate seat in New Hampshire since 2010. This makes the upcoming race particularly crucial.
