Former Republican Senator John E. Sununu is poised to re-enter political contention, with speculation he will launch a 2026 midterm campaign for New Hampshire’s Senate seat. Sununu, who previously served in the U.S. House from 1997 to 2003 and in the Senate from 2003 to 2009, is the brother of former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu. His political career saw a setback in 2008 when he lost re-election to Jeanne Shaheen, who recently announced she will not seek another term in 2026.
Sununu has maintained a complex relationship with Donald Trump, opposing him during the 2016 and 2024 elections by supporting John Kasich and Nikki Haley, respectively. He also criticized Trump in an op-ed ahead of the 2023 GOP primary, despite Trump’s subsequent victory. However, Sununu’s potential candidacy has drawn attention from Senate Republicans, who view him as a viable contender to unseat Shaheen. A circulated memo suggests his nomination would transform New Hampshire from a “competitive” race into a “top pickup opportunity” for the GOP.
Sununu’s return comes amid efforts by Senate leadership to secure his participation. Majority Leader John Thune and former Senate Leadership Fund Chair Cory Gardner have actively courted him, following his brother Chris Sununu’s decision not to run. The memo, dated October 15, highlights polling data indicating Sununu could challenge Democratic front-runner Chris Pappas. Sununu is expected to announce his candidacy soon, with White House officials noting ongoing discussions about a potential meeting with Trump.
