John E. Sununu, a Republican from New Hampshire, formally announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate on Wednesday. His campaign aims to regain a seat he lost nearly 16 years ago. Sununu is eyeing the seat currently held by Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, who defeated him in 2008.
Sununu’s Campaign Strategy
The 61-year-old Sununu is looking to secure the Republican nomination amid a competitive primary. Former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown, who lost to Shaheen in 2014, has already launched his campaign. Brown has been campaigning since June and aligns closely with former President Donald Trump.
Motivation for Running
In a campaign announcement video, Sununu expressed surprise at his decision to run again. He stated, “Maybe you’re surprised to hear that I’m running for the Senate again. I’m a bit surprised myself.” He emphasized the need to reduce divisiveness and prioritize legislative efficiency.
Republican Support
National Republican leaders view Sununu as a formidable candidate. His entry into the race strengthens the party’s position to make the Senate seat more competitive in the upcoming 2026 elections. The Republican National Committee noted Sununu’s candidacy expands the Republican field in New Hampshire.
- Senate Leadership Fund expressed excitement about Sununu’s candidacy.
- The Senate GOP currently holds a 53-47 seat advantage.
- Republicans are defending seats in Ohio, Maine, and North Carolina while targeting Democratic strongholds.
Challenges Ahead
Sununu faces hurdles, including potential backlash due to his past criticisms of Trump. Unlike Sununu, Brown has maintained a close relationship with Trump, serving as his ambassador to New Zealand.
Sununu previously endorsed Nikki Haley for the 2024 Republican presidential primary and labeled Trump a “loser.” This could influence his appeal among Trump supporters as he strives for the nomination.
Political Landscape in New Hampshire
Despite Republican control of the Statehouse and governorship, Democrats hold all four congressional seats in New Hampshire since 2017. Sununu’s past experience includes three terms in the U.S. House and a brief stint as the youngest senator at age 38.
Key Issues in Sununu’s Campaign
Sununu aims to focus on critical issues such as:
- Economic stability
- Veterans’ affairs
- Healthcare costs
- Social Security
In response, Chris Pappas, the leading candidate for the Democratic nomination, highlighted his commitment to supporting working families while criticizing Sununu’s ties to corporate interests.
Legacy and Recognition
Sununu’s political lineage enhances his name recognition. His father, John H. Sununu, previously served as governor and chief of staff at the White House. His brother, Chris Sununu, is a former governor who briefly considered a Senate run for himself in 2021.
