Jeanne Shaheen won't run for re-election in 2026, opening up Senate race
Jeanne Shaheen, US Senator and former Governor of New Hampshire (Photo: Getty Images)
Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a Democrat from New Hampshire, has announced she will not seek re-election in 2026, a decision that could complicate her party’s efforts to regain a Senate majority, reports The New York Times.
Shaheen, who has served in the Senate since 2009, stated that after 30 years in elected office, it’s time for a new generation of leaders.
“It was a difficult decision, made more difficult by the current environment in the country,” she said.
Her departure sets the stage for a competitive Senate race in a state where Republicans are already eyeing a potential flip. Among the likely contenders are former Senator Scott Brown and ex-Governor Chris Sununu, who had previously ruled out a run but recently admitted he is “not completely closing the door” on the idea.
Shaheen’s political legacy
Shaheen made history as the first woman elected both governor of New Hampshire and US senator. She played a crucial role in strengthening the Democratic Party in a traditionally Republican-leaning state. In the Senate, she focused on infrastructure, small business support, and national security policies.
Known for her pragmatic leadership, she worked across the aisle, including a bipartisan effort with the late Senator John McCain to provide visas for Afghans who aided the US military.
“It’s important for New Hampshire and the country to have a new generation of leadership,” she emphasized.
Meanwhile, Shaheen has been a vocal critic of President Donald Trump. She condemned his “budget cuts, political retribution, and hostility toward Ukraine,” arguing that Trump’s 50 days in office have already demonstrated policies that are damaging both domestically and internationally.
Shaheen’s decision leaves uncertainty for the 2026 elections, but her impact on New Hampshire’s political landscape remains significant.
