With Senator Jeanne Shaheen announcing that she will not seek re-election in 2026, speculation has erupted over who will be the next Senator from New Hampshire. Shaheen’s decision to retire after serving three terms has left the seat wide open, prompting political insiders to start considering potential candidates for the upcoming race.
Shaheen, a Democrat, has been a prominent figure in New Hampshire politics for decades, serving as Governor before being elected to the Senate in 2008. Her departure will undoubtedly leave a void in the state’s political landscape, and both parties are expected to field strong candidates to vie for her seat.
Republicans are likely to seize on the opportunity to try and flip the seat from blue to red, as New Hampshire has a history of political swing. Potential GOP candidates include Governor Chris Sununu, who has been speculated as a possible contender for higher office in the future. Other Republicans, such as former Senator Kelly Ayotte, may also throw their hat into the ring.
On the Democratic side, potential candidates include Executive Councilor Andru Volinsky and former Congressman Paul Hodes, who have both expressed interest in running for the Senate. With Shaheen’s endorsement likely to carry weight in the state, whoever she chooses to endorse may have an advantage in the race.
As the speculation continues to swirl, it remains to be seen who will ultimately emerge as the frontrunner in New Hampshire’s 2026 Senate race. With the potential for a contentious and closely watched race on the horizon, political observers will be closely monitoring the developments in the coming years.
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