New Hampshire's 1st Congressional District is the scene of a Democratic primary too close to call between Stefany Shaheen, daughter of retiring Senator Jeanne Shaheen, and Maura Sullivan, a former Obama administration official. The winner will aim to keep the seat under Democratic control following incumbent Rep. Chris Pappas' decision to pursue a U.S. Senate bid.
Pappas, who has represented the district since 2019, announced his candidacy for the Senate last year. He last won reelection with 54.0% of the vote against Republican challenger Russell Prescott.
The primary attracted a field of eight other Democratic contenders, including state legislator Carleigh Beriont, who secured approximately 20% of the vote. Sullivan raised $3.6 million in campaign contributions, surpassing Shaheen's $2.4 million, according to Federal Election Commission records.
Despite Sullivan's financial advantage, Shaheen held a lead for much of Tuesday evening, ultimately finishing with a roughly 2% advantage. Senator Jeanne Shaheen endorsed her daughter, highlighting Shaheen's local business background and advocacy work.
Shaheen's platform includes priorities such as Medicare for All, expanded tax credits for first-time homebuyers, and an overhaul of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Sullivan, who served in the Marines and as an assistant secretary at the Department of Veterans Affairs during the Obama administration, pitched herself as an experienced candidate. Her campaign website emphasized her military service, her work in the VA, and her leadership in the private health technology sector.
Sullivan's policy proposals include combating price gouging, strengthening the VA, opposing tariffs, and increasing federal investment in housing development. She indicated late Tuesday that the race was not yet decided, stating that many results were still pending.
Upon securing the nomination, either Shaheen or Sullivan will advance to the general election on November 3rd.