Former GOP Senate nominee Don Bolduc backs Democrat Chris Pappas in New Hampshire race

Retired Army brigadier general Don Bolduc, the Trump-endorsed Republican who was the party’s 2022 Senate nominee in New Hampshire, announced his support for Democrat Chris Pappas in the state’s U.S. Senate contest. Bolduc said Pappas’s "unwavering dedication to our veterans" and his bipartisan approach make him a leader who will prioritize constituents’ needs.

Bolduc joins former state senator Rick Russman and lawyer James Steiner, both of whom have previously backed Democratic candidates such as Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan. The endorsement comes as Pappas faces former Republican Senator John E. Sununu, who is running with the backing of former Governor Chris Sununu.

Pappas emphasized his bipartisan record, noting that independent groups have rated him among the most cooperative members of the U.S. House. He said, "> Our country faces enormous challenges right now, and this is a moment for courage. I’m running for Senate because New Hampshire needs someone who will lower costs, who will put Granite Staters first, and who will get our state and country on a better path for a future."

"I will always work with anyone to deliver for New Hampshire, and I’m grateful to have earned the support of Granite Staters across party and ideological lines who are ready to build a freer, fairer future for our state."

Russman, a longtime Republican, criticized the current Republican candidate, stating, "> Donald Trump’s handpicked candidate, John Sununu, and the MAGA machine do not represent the Republican Party of our parents and grandparents." Steiner added, "> Donald Trump has turned the Republican Party into something I no longer recognize, and John Sununu has made the choice to follow him rather than stand up for what is best for New Hampshire."

The endorsement reflects ongoing intra-party tensions in New Hampshire, with several former GOP officials publicly distancing themselves from the Sununu-Trump alignment.