CONCORD, N.H. — Veteran Congressman Chris Pappas has unveiled his plans to pursue a seat in the U.S. Senate, aiming to inherit the position currently held by retiring U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, a Democrat representing New Hampshire.
In a video message, Pappas articulated his intentions, stating, “I’m running for Senate because our economy, our democracy, and our way of life are on the line, and New Hampshire deserves a senator who is grounded in the people, places, and values of this state.” He promised to prioritize the state, following in Shaheen’s footsteps. He also asserted his readiness to challenge current political threats, including the administration, affluent elites with self-serving agendas, and radical politicians.
The 44-year-old Pappas emerges as a frontrunner among Democrats to succeed Shaheen, who announced her decision to step down from her Senate career in March of this year. Shaheen, at 78, has served three terms and was recognized as the first woman to be elected both governor and senator in the U.S.
Pappas may encounter stiff competition from the Republican side. Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, a candidate with widespread popularity, is contemplating a bid. Sununu decided against running for a fifth two-year gubernatorial term last year.
In the previous election, Pappas secured victory against Republican Russell Prescott, a former state senator, for New Hampshire’s 1st District. This area encompasses the eastern part of the state, including its largest city, Manchester, his hometown. Pappas has successfully navigated this politically volatile district, which altered party control five times within six election cycles from 2006 to 2016.
During his political career, Pappas, who identifies as a pragmatic advocate in Washington, has gathered significant support from diverse groups, including women, veterans, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He emphasized his commitment to abortion rights in his campaign, challenging Prescott’s stance as inconsistent with women’s autonomy in healthcare.
In 2022, Pappas triumphed over Republican contender Karoline Leavitt, who presently serves as White House press secretary. During her campaign, Leavitt maintained the falsehood that the 2020 election was unjustly taken from former President Trump, a claim Pappas actively contested.
Pappas made history in 2018 as the first openly gay Congress member from New Hampshire. Aside from his political duties, he has been involved in managing his family’s restaurant in Manchester and participating in a state council responsible for approving expenditure contracts.