Former Senator John Sununu Eyes 2026 Senate Run in New Hampshire

Former Republican Senator John E. Sununu is strongly considering a return to politics with a potential 2026 Senate campaign for New Hampshire’s open seat being vacated by retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen. In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Sununu expressed confidence in his chances, stating, “This is a race I know I can win. And more importantly, it’s a role where I know I can make a difference for New Hampshire.” After nearly two decades away from elected office, Sununu plans to make his final decision in October about whether to enter what promises to be a competitive race in the swing state.

The Sununu name carries significant weight in New Hampshire politics. John E. Sununu previously served three terms in the House of Representatives before defeating then-Governor Jeanne Shaheen in the 2002 Senate election. Although he lost their 2008 rematch, his political lineage runs deep in the state. His father, John H. Sununu, served as governor and later as White House Chief of Staff under President George H.W. Bush, while his younger brother Chris Sununu recently completed four terms as New Hampshire’s governor. This family recognition could prove valuable, as Sununu has spent the past two decades in the private sector. “Over the last few weeks, people in New Hampshire have reached out. They’ve encouraged me to run for Senate,” Sununu explained, “because they know how important it is that New Hampshire has the right kind of voice in Washington, someone who will stand up for our state.”

National Republican leaders appear enthusiastic about Sununu’s potential candidacy. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and former Senator Cory Gardner, chair of the Senate Leadership Fund (the primary super PAC supporting Senate Republicans), have both held conversations with Sununu regarding a possible run. Sources indicate these leaders are “cautiously optimistic” about his prospects. Republicans view flipping this Senate seat as crucial to not only defending but potentially expanding their Senate majority in 2026. The current Democratic frontrunner is four-term Representative Chris Pappas, setting up what could be one of the most closely watched Senate races in the next election cycle.

Sununu’s potential return to politics comes at a time when the Republican Party has transformed significantly under former President Donald Trump’s influence. The party has shifted from its traditional business-oriented platform toward a more populist approach aligned with Trump’s America First agenda and MAGA movement. This evolution raises questions about whether Sununu, who has been critical of Trump in the past, can navigate today’s Republican primary landscape. When asked if there’s still room for an old-school fiscal conservative in Trump’s GOP, Sununu responded philosophically: “Good decision-making, good leadership, never goes out of style. Standing up for your state, standing up for your neighbors and your friends, and the things that make New Hampshire strong never goes out of style.”

The former senator’s past criticisms of Trump could present challenges in a Republican primary where loyalty to the former president is often a litmus test. Sununu endorsed Nikki Haley in the 2024 New Hampshire Republican presidential primary, and on the eve of that contest, wrote an opinion piece titled “Donald Trump is a loser” for the state’s largest newspaper. He already faces primary competition from former Senator Scott Brown and state Senator Dan Innis, both vocal Trump supporters. Brown has labeled Sununu “the original ‘Never Trumper,'” while Innis claims to be the most pro-Trump candidate in the race. When asked about winning a primary that might become a Trump loyalty test, Sununu pivoted to effectiveness: “The real question is, can you be effective? Can you work with other members of Congress? Can you work with this White House? Can you provide the kind of leadership it takes to get things done? And I know I can do that.”

Despite Sununu’s past criticisms, there are indications Trump might be willing to support his candidacy. Earlier this year, Trump encouraged Chris Sununu to run for Senate despite the former governor’s frequent criticism during the 2024 Republican presidential primaries. “He’s been very nice to me over the last year or so,” Trump said of the younger Sununu. “I hope he runs. I think he’ll win that seat.” A national Republican strategist familiar with the New Hampshire race suggested Trump might back John E. Sununu as well: “President Trump appreciates winners and understands that John E. Sununu puts this race on the map for Republicans.” When asked about seeking Trump’s endorsement, Sununu acknowledged he’d “certainly love to have support from across the spectrum, that includes the president,” while emphasizing that his focus remains on “building support in New Hampshire, providing the right leadership for New Hampshire and the right message for New Hampshire.” As October approaches, all eyes will be on Sununu’s decision about whether to enter this high-stakes Senate contest.