CONCORD, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Former U.S. Senator John E. Sununu announced Wednesday that he will seek election to the United States Senate in 2026, entering the race for the seat being vacated by retiring Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.).

In a video message released online, Sununu said he is running to help restore functionality and civility to an institution he described as “loud, angry, and dysfunctional.”

“Maybe you’re surprised to hear that I’m running for the Senate again,” Sununu said. “I’m a bit surprised myself. But the challenges facing our country demand experienced, level-headed leadership. Somebody has to step up, lower the temperature, and get things done for New Hampshire.”

A Record of Public Service and Private-Sector Leadership

Sununu, 61, previously represented New Hampshire in both chambers of Congress, serving three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1997 to 2003 and one term in the U.S. Senate from 2003 to 2009.

Born and raised in Salem, New Hampshire, Sununu is one of eight children in a family long active in public service. His father, John H. Sununu, served as the state’s 75th governor and as White House chief of staff under President George H.W. Bush. His brother, Chris Sununu, is the current governor of New Hampshire.

Before entering public office, Sununu built a career in the private sector as an engineer and technology executive. He has emphasized that experience as key to his belief in “innovation, entrepreneurship, and small-business growth” as drivers of the American economy.

“Government should be a partner, not an obstacle,” he said. “New Hampshire thrives when we empower small businesses, keep taxes low, and create opportunities for families to succeed.”

A Competitive 2026 Race

Sununu’s announcement immediately reshaped the political landscape in one of the nation’s most competitive swing states. The open seat is expected to draw national attention and significant resources from both parties.

On the Republican side, former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown, who ran unsuccessfully against Shaheen in 2014, has also declared his candidacy. Democratic U.S. Representative Chris Pappas is widely viewed as his party’s frontrunner.

A recent University of New Hampshire poll showed Sununu leading the Republican field, with strong statewide name recognition and broad support among moderate voters.

Political observers note that Sununu’s return to politics could strengthen the GOP’s chances of reclaiming the seat, depending on turnout and national trends heading into the midterms.

Commitment to New Hampshire Values

In his announcement, Sununu said his campaign will focus on pragmatic solutions to economic and fiscal challenges, advocating for lower taxes, energy independence, and stronger support for small businesses.

“The people of New Hampshire deserve results, not rhetoric,” he said. “My goal is to bring common sense, integrity, and real problem-solving back to Washington.”

Sununu also pledged to run a “positive, issue-focused campaign” that reflects New Hampshire’s independent spirit.