​Senator Jeanne Shaheen's Retirement Sparks Political Upheaval in New Hampshire

Concord, NH - ​Senator Jeanne Shaheen's recent announcement that she will not seek re-election in 2026 has sent ripples through New Hampshire's political landscape, setting the stage for a highly competitive Senate race. This decision opens the door for several prominent figures to vie for her seat, notably Democratic Representatives Chris Pappas and Maggie Goodlander, as well as former Republican Governor Chris Sununu. Additionally, this development has reignited discussions about redistricting New Hampshire's congressional seats, a topic that has long been on the back burner.​

Shaheen's Legacy and Decision to Retire

Jeanne Shaheen, 78, has been a stalwart in New Hampshire politics for decades. She made history as the first woman in U.S. history to be elected both as a governor and a U.S. senator. Serving three terms as governor from 1997 to 2003 and then as senator since 2009, Shaheen has been a pivotal figure in shaping the state's political and policy landscape. In her retirement announcement, Shaheen stated, "It's just time," reflecting a desire to pass the torch to new leadership while expressing dissatisfaction with the current national political environment. ​

Potential Democratic Contenders: Pappas and Goodlander

The vacancy left by Shaheen has prompted immediate interest from within her party. Representative Chris Pappas, who has served New Hampshire's 1st Congressional District since 2019, is reportedly "strongly considering" a Senate run. Pappas has been a prominent figure in state politics and, if elected, would become the first openly gay male senator, marking a significant

Simultaneously, Representative Maggie Goodlander, who recently began her first term representing the 2nd Congressional District, is also contemplating a bid for the Senate seat. Goodlander has a background in foreign policy, having served as an advisor to senators and within the Department of Defense. Her swift rise in politics has positioned her as a formidable contender. When asked about her potential candidacy, Goodlander remarked, "I'm taking it one day at a time... we’ve all got to be focused on what we can do... to do the most we can for our communities." ​

Republican Prospects: Chris Sununu's Potential Bid

On the Republican side, former Governor Chris Sununu is reconsidering a run for the Senate. Sununu, who served as governor from 2017 to 2025, previously mulled over a Senate bid in 2022 but opted to continue his gubernatorial duties. His tenure as governor was marked by efforts to streamline government operations and bolster the state's economy. Sununu's potential entry into the Senate race could significantly alter the dynamics, given his popularity and political experience. ​

Implications for Redistricting

Shaheen's retirement has also brought the issue of redistricting back into focus. New Hampshire's congressional districts have remained unchanged for years, leading to debates about fair representation. The potential candidacies of Pappas and Goodlander for the Senate seat could leave both congressional districts open, providing a unique opportunity to revisit and possibly redraw district boundaries. Redistricting could address population shifts and ensure equitable representation, but it also carries the risk of partisan gerrymandering. The outcome of these discussions could have lasting impacts on New Hampshire's political landscape.