Trump-backed Sununu wins New Hampshire primary amid ongoing political blitz

In a closely watched political contest, John E. Sununu, the Republican candidate endorsed by Donald Trump, has won the New Hampshire Republican Senate primary, held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Sununu, a former U.S. Senator, successfully defeated his primary opponent, Scott Brown, to secure the nomination. This victory sets the stage for a general election battle against Democratic Representative Chris Pappas for the open Senate seat being vacated by the retiring Senator Jeanne Shaheen.

Donald Trump's endorsement of Sununu earlier in the year was a significant factor, despite Sununu having previously voiced criticism of Trump, even calling him a "loser" in a 2024 op-ed and backing Nikki Haley in the Republican presidential primary. The former president's support was conveyed via Truth Social, where he praised Sununu as an "America First patriot" and stated that his endorsement effectively ended the primary race.

The New Hampshire Senate race is anticipated to be a crucial one in determining party control of the U.S. Senate. Sununu, hailing from a prominent New Hampshire political family, will now focus on the November general election, where he faces a competitive challenge from Chris Pappas.