Chris Sununu's Senate Move? Ex-Governor Weighs Big Decision Amid GOP Buzz

NEWFIELDS, N.H. — Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu is mulling a potential Senate run in 2026, aiming to fill the seat of retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen. In a candid interview with Fox News, Sununu revealed that he's in talks with national Republican leaders and expects to make a decision within "the next few weeks."

Known for his frequent appearances on cable news and Sunday talk shows, Sununu expressed confidence in his ability to win. "I have no doubt I can win," he declared, adding that he believes he would have former President Donald Trump's support, despite being a vocal critic of Trump in the past. Love him or hate him, Sununu sure knows how to keep all options and alliances open.

The race for Shaheen's seat is already shaping up as one of the GOP's top targets for the 2026 midterms, alongside key states like Michigan and Georgia, as Republicans aim to expand their current 53-47 Senate majority. Shaheen, a trailblazer as the first woman to serve as both a governor and U.S. senator, announced her retirement this week, leaving the seat up for grabs.

Sununu's recent openness to a Senate bid marks a stark shift from his earlier statements. As recently as November, Sununu had firmly ruled out a Senate run, saying it wasn't "on his dance card." Fast forward a few months, and the 50-year-old former governor is now leaving the door slightly ajar. "The door’s open," he said, though he added, "It’s not open a lot, to be honest." A classic case of "never say never," it seems.

He's reportedly been discussing the matter with Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, and has plans to meet with other Senate Republicans in Washington. Four years ago, Sununu flirted with the idea of running against Sen. Maggie Hassan but ultimately opted to seek a fourth term as governor instead, frustrating national Republicans at the time.

Sununu's potential candidacy underscores his growing national profile and his ability to navigate complex political terrain. He acknowledged the gridlock in Washington, saying, "I think Washington has been really stagnated. Hasn’t done a whole lot, doesn’t deliver." However, with Trump back in the White House and discussions around balanced budgets and government efficiency gaining traction, Sununu hinted at a newfound optimism. "That gives me hope," he said. "Maybe there is an opportunity to have a leadership role in something that is very critical and vital to the country."

Of course, Sununu isn't the only Republican eyeing the seat. Former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown, who narrowly lost to Shaheen in 2014, is also considering a run. Brown has been meeting with New Hampshire Republicans and national GOP leaders, signaling his own ambitions.

With Shaheen stepping down, Sununu sees a prime opportunity for Republicans to flip the seat. Whether it's him, Brown, or another candidate, Sununu emphasized the importance of picking the right contender. "I’ve been trying to talk to the folks in Washington, help them understand what New Hampshire is about, how to win here, how to be successful," he said.

One thing's for sure: the 2026 Senate race in New Hampshire is shaping up to be a political spectacle. And if Sununu does jump in, it could be a game-changer for the GOP.