Senator Jeanne Shaheen Won’t Seek Re-Election In 2026

In a significant development for New Hampshire politics, Senator Jeanne Shaheen announced last week that she will not seek re-election in 2026. Having served in various capacities for nearly half a century, Shaheen's decision marks a key moment not only for her career but also for the Democratic Party's future in the state.

Shaheen, who was first elected to the Senate in 2008, reflected on her extensive career during an interview with NHPR. "It was a difficult decision made especially difficult because of what's happening in the country right now and my concern about what President Trump is doing and the direction that he's taking the country," she stated. Acknowledging her tenure, she emphasized, "At the end of this term, I will have served for 30 years in elective office. And so it will be nice to have time to do some other things, [have] a little more flexibility."

The implications of Shaheen's departure are significant for the Democratic Party, which has been grappling with unity amidst varied strategies. Shaheen believes it is crucial for Democrats to continue addressing the issues that matter to voters. She pointed out that during the elections last November, people were hoping for solutions regarding grocery prices, inflation, housing costs, and energy prices. "That's what I think people want to see. They want to see that whoever is in office is going to help make their lives better," she added.

As Senator Shaheen prepares to conclude her 30-year political journey, she remains focused on delivering for her constituents. "I have tried throughout my entire political career to make a difference for the people of this state, and I'm not going to stop until the end of my term two years from now," she affirmed. The senator, who is now the ranking member on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, is especially concerned about the impact of current U.S. foreign policy under President Trump, particularly relating to Ukraine and support for healthcare initiatives.

In the shadow of Shaheen's announcement, U.S. Representative Chris Pappas, a fellow Democrat, confirmed on March 18, 2025, that he is considering a run for the U.S. Senate seat. Pappas is widely regarded as a potential successor to Shaheen, and his recent statements suggest a proactive approach to engaging with voters across the state. "For me, public service has never been about a career. It's been about a state that I love that has given me so many opportunities in life," Pappas expressed. He is keen to discuss with constituents the issues that matter most to them as he contemplates a Senate bid.

Meanwhile, another name surfacing in the conversation is U.S. Representative Maggie Goodlander, who is also said to be weighing a run for the Senate. The competition for the Democratic nomination is expected to intensify as potential candidates gauge their support among party members and New Hampshire voters.

As Senate Democrats strategize amidst this changing political landscape, the departure of a seasoned figure like Shaheen raises questions about the party's ability to maintain its foothold in New Hampshire. Shaheen's focus on practical solutions and opposition to President Trump's policies highlights the urgency for the party to harness public sentiment effectively.

During her remaining time in office, Shaheen is committed to pushing against what she sees as destructive policies. This includes advocating for healthcare access, with a significant portion of New Hampshire's population relying on Medicaid. Currently, 13% of residents benefit from the program, which is essential for many families across the state. She emphasized the threats posed by proposed cuts to Medicaid and what that would mean for families in New Hampshire.

This morning, Shaheen met with Australian officials and members from the Navy League in Portsmouth to discuss support for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, showcasing her continuing commitment to both local and international issues. "Continuing to support AUKUS, which is the agreement that shares technology around nuclear submarines, is so important because it helps address the threat from the People's Republic of China in the Indo-Pacific," she noted.

As New Hampshire prepares for the future political landscape, the exit of long-time Senator Jeanne Shaheen and the possible entry of new candidates such as Pappas and Goodlander signal an impending shift in the state's representation. Significant changes could be on the horizon that may shape the Democratic Party's role both in New Hampshire and nationally. The race to fill Shaheen's seat will undoubtedly be closely watched, as candidates articulate their vision for the future amidst a critical juncture in American politics.