Jeanne Shaheen
Democratic US senator from New Hampshire, not seeking re-election.
On 15 September, Cook Political Report moved New Hampshire’s open Senate race to Toss Up as Jeanne Shaheen’s retirement set up a contest between John E. Sununu and Chris Pappas.
Last refreshed: 24 September 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic
Why is Jeanne Shaheen's open Senate seat now rated a Toss Up?
Timeline for Jeanne Shaheen
Cook moves New Hampshire towards Sununu
US Midterms 2026Background
Jeanne Shaheen is the Democratic US senator from New Hampshire. Her decision not to seek re-election leaves an open Senate seat in the 2026 midterms, making her departure a lasting part of the state’s political record.
Shaheen’s seat has become a contest between Republican John E. Sununu and Democrat Chris Pappas. On 15 September 2026, citing Republican money behind Sununu’s bid, Cook Political Report downgraded the race a notch, from Lean Democrat to Toss Up.
The rating change concerns the race to succeed Shaheen, rather than a change in her Senate role. It nevertheless shows why her retirement matters beyond New Hampshire: an incumbent-held Democratic seat is now open in a competitive national election.
Is Jeanne Shaheen running for re-election?
Who is running for Jeanne Shaheen's Senate seat?
Why did New Hampshire's Senate race move to Toss Up?
