Chris Pappas Wins New Hampshire Senate Race

Democratic Representative Chris Pappas is set to defeat former Republican Senator John E. Sununu in New Hampshire’s competitive Senate race, according to projections by the Fox News Decision Desk. With 19.18% of votes reported, Pappas gained 60.6%, while Sununu captured 37.61%.

Pappas succeeds longtime Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, who is retiring. His victory strengthens the Democratic Party’s efforts to regain Senate majority from the GOP during the midterm elections.

Sununu, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, attempted a Senate return after 18 years. Yet, he distanced himself from Trump. Sununu criticized Pappas, claiming he hadn’t delivered for New Hampshire during his time in Congress.

“He has attempted very little in Congress. He’s accomplished even less,” Sununu told Fox News Digital. He accused Pappas of being a “rubber stamp for the far left.”

Pappas, a seasoned congressman, responded by highlighting his bipartisan efforts. He mentioned working across the aisle on fentanyl legislation, focusing on combating drug trafficking.

“I work with people across the aisle, and I’ve been rated as one of the most bipartisan Democrats in the House,” he shared with Fox News Digital.

Pappas co-owns a well-known New Hampshire restaurant, Puritan Backroom. Before Congress, he served on New Hampshire’s Executive Council.

The Democrats succeeded in associating Sununu with Trump, whose popularity is declining in New Hampshire and nationwide.

Sununu, however, maintained the election centered on New Hampshire’s future.

“This election is about New Hampshire. It’s about who’s going to give New Hampshire the strong independent voice we need in Washington,” Sununu stated.

Sununu’s political legacy includes six years in the House and a 2002 Senate victory over then-Governor Shaheen. He lost a 2008 Senate race rematch.

His family carries political influence in New Hampshire. Sununu’s father served as governor and chief of staff under George H.W. Bush. His brother Chris Sununu recently concluded an eight-year term as governor.