Key facts
- New Hampshire's primary elections are underway, featuring a key Democratic Senate race.
- U.S. Representative Chris Pappas faces a challenge from progressive medical scientist Karishma Manzur.
- Manzur has gained ground in polls, narrowing Pappas' lead.
- The Republican Senate primary is led by John Sununu.
- Nominees for two U.S. House seats will also be chosen.
- Governor Kelly Ayotte is favored to win the Republican gubernatorial primary.
New Hampshire's primary elections are set to commence, featuring a closely watched Democratic Senate race and contests for two U.S. House seats. The state's primary is among the last in the 2026 election cycle, occurring just eight weeks before the November general election that will determine control of Congress.
In the Democratic Senate primary, U.S. Representative Chris Pappas, a moderate, has been the frontrunner since entering the race in April 2025 following Senator Jeanne Shaheen's announcement of retirement. Pappas has maintained a fundraising lead and secured endorsements from prominent Democrats, including former Vice President Kamala Harris and Senators Shaheen and Maggie Hassan.
However, medical scientist Karishma Manzur, a progressive challenger, has gained traction, significantly narrowing Pappas' lead in recent polls. A University of New Hampshire poll on August 26 showed Pappas leading Manzur 47% to 34%, a decrease from his 24-point lead in June. Manzur's momentum aligns with a trend of progressive victories in other states. She has criticized Pappas' support from pro-Israel donors, particularly the AIPAC lobbying group, and has focused on cooling Democratic support for Israel.
The likely Republican nominee for the Senate seat is John Sununu, who holds a substantial lead over former Senator Scott Brown. Sununu, who previously served a six-year Senate term, has received an endorsement from President Donald Trump.
New Hampshire voters are known for their engagement, with a significant independent voter bloc influencing election outcomes. The state's political landscape is divided, with Democrats holding both Senate seats and House seats, while Republicans control the governorship and state legislature.
In the races for the U.S. House seats, a crowded field of eight candidates is competing in the Democratic primary to replace Pappas. Notable contenders include Stefany Shaheen, daughter of the retiring senator, and ex-Marine captain Maura Sullivan. In the Republican primary for a House seat, auto dealer Anthony DiLorenzo is a top fundraiser, endorsed by Trump.
In another House race, Representative Maggie Goodlander is seeking re-election against state legislator Paige Beauchemin in the Democratic primary. The Republican contenders include real estate investor Lily Williams and roofing company owner Victor Orlando.
New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte is expected to win the Republican gubernatorial primary and is favored to defeat Democrat Cinde Warmington, who is running unopposed, in the general election.