New Hampshire's Republican primary for the U.S. Senate is presenting a notable contrast to national political trends, with voters leaning towards established former senators John Sununu and Scott Brown over newer candidates. This approach defies the widespread anti-establishment sentiment seen in other races across the country.
Voters like Paul Martino of North Hampton expressed support for Sununu, citing his perceived intelligence, honesty, and civic-mindedness, calling him a "good guy for this moment" who can "find commonalities." This "back-to-the-future" approach from Republican candidates will stand in contrast to the Democratic primary, which features younger and more progressive contenders.
Sununu, who previously served three terms in the U.S. House and one in the Senate, is making a return to the ballot after an 18-year absence. His political reappearance is aided by the lingering popularity of his brother, Chris Sununu, who recently concluded eight years as governor. Despite occasional confusion, with some mistaking him for his brother, John Sununu stated his intention to emphasize his own record.
Scott Brown, a former senator who also previously held a Senate seat in Massachusetts, acknowledged voter confusion, noting that some inquire if "the father's running again." While trailing Sununu in polls and fundraising, Brown believes late-deciding voters will support him, asserting he will "outwork" his opponent.
Unlike many other Republican primaries where a presidential endorsement was crucial, Donald Trump's support for Sununu has played a less central role. Trump endorsed Sununu in February, despite Sununu having previously called the former president a "loser" during the 2024 GOP presidential primary. Political science professor Dante Scala observed that Brown's decision not to emphasize a "Trumpiest" platform was surprising, suggesting it might stem from his "earlier era" political background.
Brown, who represented Massachusetts and unsuccessfully challenged incumbent Jeanne Shaheen in 2014, noted the shift in Washington from a more collaborative environment to a polarizing one. He positions himself as an independent "freelancer" capable of voting his conscience, free from the pressures of special interests or the need to please Washington figures.
Sununu echoed the theme of independence, stating he doesn't need to satisfy anyone in Washington and will "stand up for New Hampshire." He declined to elaborate on the changing nature of the Republican party, stating he would not "review 20 years of political history."
The primary, occurring just eight weeks before the general election, comes at a time when national polling shows President Trump with low approval ratings and a general voter appetite for change.
In the concurrent Democratic primary, anti-establishment sentiment is also present with the rise of democratic socialist Karishma Manzur. Despite endorsements from prominent Democrats like former Vice President Kamala Harris and significant fundraising by four-term U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas, Manzur has gained traction in the polls. Both candidates are framing themselves as fighters against corruption, with Manzur accusing Pappas of being beholden to political donors.
Some Republican voters, like Ed Gleason, expressed a focus on stability and constituent representation over strict party ideology, with Gleason opting to support Brown based on his "background, experience, and demonstrated interest in the people of New Hampshire."