New Hampshire voters are heading to the polls Tuesday to select nominees for congressional seats, governor, and the state Legislature, with the retirement of three-term Democratic U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen creating a field of competitive races.
The race to succeed Shaheen has drawn eight Republicans, including former U.S. Senators John E. Sununu and Scott Brown, both of whom Shaheen previously defeated. Sununu, who served in the House and Senate, is focusing on affordability and constituent service, stating, "I need to do one thing: Stand up for the people of New Hampshire."
Brown, who previously represented Massachusetts and unsuccessfully challenged Shaheen in 2014, is running on his experience as a veteran, lawmaker, and ambassador. He has criticized Sununu, whose family has a prominent political history in the state, and asserted his own independence. Sununu has secured an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, despite having previously called him "a loser."
In the race for the 1st Congressional District, U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas's decision to leave his House seat after four terms has attracted numerous candidates for the Democratic nomination. Pappas has outraised his primary opponents significantly. Among the leading Democratic contenders for the seat are Stefany Shaheen, the retiring senator's daughter and a former city councilor, and Maura Sullivan, an Iraq War veteran and former Assistant Secretary at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
On the Republican side for the 1st District, Anthony DiLorenzo, a car dealership owner endorsed by Trump, and Hollie Noveletsky, a veteran and business owner, are among the candidates.
The 2nd Congressional District features incumbent Democratic Rep. Maggie Goodlander facing a primary challenge from state lawmaker Paige Beachemin. Lily Tang Williams is again seeking the Republican nomination for the seat.
Governor Kelly Ayotte, a Republican, is running for a second term and faces two lesser-known primary opponents. The Democratic nomination for governor is unopposed and will go to Cinde Warmington, a healthcare attorney.
Voters will also decide candidates for the state Legislature, where Republicans currently hold majorities in both the House and Senate.
New Hampshire's state-level primaries are occurring late in the election calendar, leaving winners about eight weeks to campaign before the November 3 general election. However, legislation passed this year will move future state primaries to an earlier date in June, beginning in 2026.