Recently, a poll has signaled challenges for Democrats in New Hampshire’s open Senate race ahead of the 2026 midterms. Rep. Chris Pappas is currently in the lead, but former Sen. John Sununu is closing the gap, which now stands at 45% to 42%.
For context, Pappas leads his GOP rival, Scott Brown, 49%-39%, but Sununu is performing much better in the GOP primary, where he stands at 42% compared to Brown’s 19%. Additionally, his legacy includes being the brother of the former Governor, Chris Sununu, which is helping his chances.
Additionally, when we examine favorability ratings, he ranks above both candidates. Sununu sits at 48% favorable, with Pappas at 47%, and Brown lagging at 30%. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen has departed the seat, which leans Democrat, but this strong showing indicates GOP gains in the Northeast amid redistricting
In any case, a viral poll update was posted to X, formerly Twitter, where it gained widespread support. “2026 New Hampshire Senate Poll 🔵 Chris Pappas: 45% 🔴 John Sununu: 42% Co/efficient Poll | 10/9-10/13,” a post read.
Signaling his allegiance, Democratic Representative Chris Pappas paid tribute to his predecessor. He said, “Senator Shaheen is a trailblazing leader who has dedicated her career to putting New Hampshire first and working each and every day to protect our communities, strengthen our economy, and keep our nation safe.”
Building on this point, he continued to lavish compliments. “Her effective and determined leadership as our governor and United States senator has brought people together to solve tough problems and move New Hampshire forward,” he noted
In his own statement, Former Sen. John E. Sununu made his pitch clear. He declared, “We need someone to represent us in New Hampshire that has our values, that’s not [going to] vote a party line, that’s willing to take risks and get things done.” Adding a Glib social media post, “Don’t call it a comeback.”
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As we reported, Senator Jeanne Shaheen issued a solemn announcement of her decision to retire, which marked the beginning of this unusual race. “I ran for public office to make a difference for the people of New Hampshire. That purpose has never and will never change. But today, after careful consideration, I’m announcing that I have made the difficult decision not to seek reelection to the Senate in 2026,” the Democrat stated.
Wrapping up her comments, she said, “And while I’m not seeking reelection, believe me, I am not retiring. I am determined to work every day over the next two years and beyond to continue trying to make a difference for the people of New Hampshire in this country. I hope you’ll join me in that effort.”
However, conservative reporter Benny Johnson took to social media to cast doubt on her decision. “Documents show that a trust connected to the husband of outgoing Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen executed multimillion-dollar purchases in a Florida retirement community in 2024,” Johnson alleged.
Continuing the speculation, one user claimed, “Lemme guess … her family’s connected to USAID somehow, and they’ve received millions of dollars in ‘grants’?” Agreeing, another added, “Looks like Shaheen’s husband’s trust cashed in big on Florida retirement properties in 2024—perfect timing with her exit from the Senate.”