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New Hampshire Senate Seat Sparks Political Interest After Shaheen’s Retirement

The Cook Political Report has classified the Senate seat held by New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D) as “lean Democrat.” This assessment comes on the heels of Shaheen’s recent announcement that she will not be seeking reelection in 2026.

Despite the Democratic lean of the seat, Republicans are expressing confidence in their chances of securing a victory. In a recent statement, National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair Tim Scott (R-S.C.) identified New Hampshire as one of six states targeted for potential gains, joining Georgia, Michigan, Maine, North Carolina, and Ohio.

Shaheen’s decision to retire is part of a broader trend, with Minnesota Senator Tina Smith (D) and Michigan Senator Gary Peters (D) also announcing their exits from the political arena in recent weeks.

Scott welcomed the news of Shaheen’s retirement, highlighting the shift in leadership he believes is needed. “Another one! Shaheen’s retirement is welcome news for Granite Staters eager for new leadership,” Scott remarked. He emphasized New Hampshire’s tradition of voting for “common-sense Republicans” and expressed optimism about the upcoming election in 2026.

Among the potential Republican candidates, there is interest in former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown (R). Brown, who lost to Shaheen in the 2014 election, was recently seen at the Capitol engaging with fellow Republican Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.). He has indicated he is considering another run for the Senate seat.

In a post on social media platform X, Brown stated his desire for a representative who aligns with President Trump’s policies. “I appreciate [Shaheen]’s service to our state and for her support and vote for me as NH’s Ambassador to NZ and Samoa. Now it’s time for New Hampshire to have someone in the delegation who fights for our priorities and stands with, not against, the Trump agenda,” he posted.

Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu (R) has also been a focus of recruitment efforts from party leaders. Although he has expressed no immediate desire to run for the Senate, he recently mentioned to The Washington Times that he hasn’t completely dismissed the possibility.

Source
thehill.com