New Hampshire voters are set to decide the nominees for a crucial open-seat Senate race on Tuesday, a contest that could significantly impact the balance of power in the midterm elections. The Democratic primary features a notable ideological clash, with progressive candidate Karishma Manzur challenging four-term Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas.
Manzur, a scientist with a Ph.D. in biochemistry and a nonprofit leader affiliated with a local Democratic Socialists of America chapter, has gained momentum in recent weeks. She is advocating for policies such as universal healthcare, a $20 minimum wage, abolishing ICE, and ending military aid to Israel, which she has criticized over its actions in Gaza. Manzur has accused Pappas of being a "genocide enabler" and of prioritizing corporate donors and foreign-aligned lobbies over his constituents.
Pappas, who has held his House seat since 2018, maintains he has been fighting to reduce the influence of money in politics. He has emphasized his support from the establishment and unions and stated that he is appealing to pragmatic, independent voters in New Hampshire. Pappas has also voiced criticisms of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, calling its current actions "reckless."
Republicans are also holding competitive primaries to succeed retiring Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, who is the first woman in the nation's history to have served as both governor and U.S. senator from New Hampshire. The GOP nomination is contested between former Sen. Scott Brown and John E. Sununu, a former governor and congressman.
Former President Donald Trump endorsed Sununu in February, a decision that has become a focal point in the Republican primary. Brown has argued that Sununu is beholden to Trump and the party establishment, while Sununu has focused on his local endorsements and grassroots support, suggesting he doesn't need outside help. Sununu has also expressed disagreement with the Trump administration's trade policies regarding Canada.
Beyond the Senate race, other key primaries are underway. In the race to succeed Pappas in New Hampshire's 1st Congressional District, Democrat Stefany Shaheen, daughter of Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, faces progressive contender Carleigh Beriont and Maura Sullivan. On the Republican side, businessman Anthony DiLorenzo, who has Trump's backing, is competing against Hollie Noveletsky.
In the 2nd Congressional District, first-term Democratic Rep. Maggie Goodlander faces a primary challenge from the left by state Rep. Paige Beauchemin. Lily Tang Williams is the frontrunner for the Republican nomination in that district.
Meanwhile, Republican Gov. Kelly Ayotte is running for a second term with no significant opposition, and former New Hampshire Executive Councilor Cinde Warmington is unopposed for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination.
