New Hampshire Primary: Progressive Opportunities Emerge as Establishment Faces Scrutiny Amid Senate and House Openings
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New Hampshire's primary offers a chance for fresh, progressive voices as entrenched power structures face disruption following Senator Jeanne Shaheen's retirement. Voters are choosing candidates for open Senate, House, governor, and legislative seats, with establishment Republicans and political dynasties vying to maintain control.
On Tuesday, New Hampshire voters participated in a pivotal primary, selecting candidates for an open U.S. Senate seat, a vacant 1st Congressional District seat, the governor’s office, and the state Legislature. The retirement of Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a champion for working families, has opened the door for a crowded Republican Senate primary dominated by establishment figures like former senators John E. Sununu and Scott Brown—both of whom previously lost to Shaheen, reflecting voters’ rejection of their corporate-aligned politics.
Sununu, whose political career has been defined by his family’s influence and a lack of substantive achievements, claims to be focused on 'affordability for housing, healthcare and energy.' Yet, his long absence from public service and ties to conservative elites raise questions about his commitment to the people of New Hampshire.
Scott Brown, a former Massachusetts senator and ambassador, is attempting to capitalize on the lack of Republican representation in Congress. Despite touting his experience, Brown’s record is marred by support for regressive policies and alignment with right-wing interests. He criticized Sununu for relying on his family name and highlighted Sununu’s support from President Donald Trump, suggesting a troubling allegiance to MAGA extremism and special interests.
In the 1st District, the Democratic primary is a beacon of hope, with seven candidates competing for the open seat. Stefany Shaheen, daughter of the retiring senator, and Maura Sullivan, a former VA official and Iraq War veteran, are leading contenders. Shaheen’s work supporting people with chronic medical conditions and her involvement in state biotech initiatives demonstrate a commitment to public health and innovation. Sullivan’s military service and prior campaign experience position her as a strong advocate for progressive change.
On the Republican side, the primary features Anthony DiLorenzo, a car dealer owner with Trump’s endorsement, and Hollie Noveletsky, a veteran-nurse practitioner. The GOP field continues to embrace Trumpism, prioritizing loyalty to the former president over substantive policy solutions.
In the 2nd District, incumbent Democrat Rep. Maggie Goodlander faces a primary challenge from progressive state lawmaker Paige Beachemin, signaling a push for bolder policies within the Democratic Party. The Republican field includes Lily Tang Williams, a perennial candidate with a history of unsuccessful Senate runs.
Governor Kelly Ayotte, a Republican, seeks to extend conservative control of the state, facing only token opposition, while Democrat Cinde Warmington runs unopposed for her party’s nomination. Republicans maintain a narrow grip on the state House and a 16-8 advantage in the Senate, underscoring the urgent need for progressive mobilization.
This primary marks the end of New Hampshire’s early-voting schedule, with just eight weeks until the general election. New legislation will move future primaries to June, potentially impacting voter turnout and grassroots organizing.