Trump Endorses Former Critic John Sununu in Pivotal New Hampshire Senate Primary
CONCORD, N.H. — In a surprising political twist, former President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind John E. Sununu, a former critic and ex-Senator, in the fiercely contested New Hampshire Republican Senate primary. The endorsement, announced on February 1, 2026, marks a significant development in a race that many view as critical to determining the balance of power in the U.S. Senate ahead of the midterm elections.
Sununu, who previously opposed Trump and backed rival candidates in the 2016 and 2024 primaries, has now been described by Trump as an “America First Patriot” committed to advancing the former president’s agenda. Trump’s social media post emphatically stated, “John E. Sununu has my Complete and Total Endorsement — HE WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN — ELECT JOHN E. SUNUNU.” This endorsement comes despite Sununu’s history of criticism, underscoring the strategic importance of this race.
The primary pits Sununu against Scott Brown, a former Senator and one of Trump’s early allies who served as an ambassador during Trump’s administration. Brown had been expected to receive Trump’s backing, making the endorsement of Sununu a notable departure from previous patterns of loyalty. Political observers note that Sununu’s candidacy is viewed by Senate Republicans as the strongest chance to flip the seat currently held by retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen.
Shaheen’s decision not to seek a fourth term opens a rare opportunity in this swing state, where control of the Senate could hinge on the outcome. New Hampshire has long been a battleground state with a history of close races, and this contest is no exception. The stakes are high as Republicans aim to regain the Senate majority, and Sununu’s campaign emphasizes a commitment to work with Trump to “get things done,” signaling a possible reconciliation that could unify the party.
Sununu’s political career includes a previous tenure as a U.S. Senator representing New Hampshire, and his return to the political arena comes at a time when the GOP is seeking candidates with broad appeal in swing states. His ability to secure Trump’s endorsement despite past disagreements may reflect a pragmatic approach by the former president to consolidate support against Democratic challengers.
For voters and political analysts alike, this endorsement highlights the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party as it prepares for the 2026 midterms. The race will be closely watched, not only in New Hampshire but nationally, as it could influence legislative priorities and the overall direction of Congress.
More information about the Senate race and election updates can be found on the U.S. Senate official website. For details on election procedures and voter information in New Hampshire, the New Hampshire Secretary of State provides comprehensive resources. Additionally, insights into the broader electoral landscape and Senate control implications are available through the Federal Election Commission. To understand the historical context of Senate races in swing states, the U.S. Census Bureau offers demographic data that often shapes electoral outcomes.
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