Sununu Declines 2026 Senate Run in New Hampshire

Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu has announced he will not run for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by retiring Democrat Jeanne Shaheen, citing personal reasons and family considerations. Despite being a popular figure and a potential asset for Republican efforts to flip the seat from blue to red, Sununu expressed that the commitment to serve in the Senate was not right for him at this time. His decision follows a meeting with former President Donald Trump, who had publicly encouraged him to consider a run. With Sununu out of the race, former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown is reportedly considering a bid. Meanwhile, Michigan Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet has also ruled out a Senate run, choosing instead to seek reelection to her House seat, indicating a competitive political landscape as several key figures opt out of higher office bids.