A recent Saint Anselm College poll suggests that Congressman Chris Pappas enters New Hampshire’s 2026 US Senate race as the dominant Democratic contender—and a formidable general-election competitor.

In 2019, Pappas became the first openly LGBTQ person from the Granite State elected to Congress, and voters sent him back for an impressive fourth term in 2024. He cochairs the US Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus

For his US Senate run, he now holds a commanding 64 percent in the Democratic primary, far outpacing scientist Karishma Manzur (8 percent) and state Rep. Jared Sullivan (2 percent). Analysts say the margin underscores his statewide name recognition and broad appeal as he seeks to move from the House to the Senate.

The Republican field, by contrast, remains unsettled. Former US Sen. John E. Sununu leads the GOP primary with 39 percent, followed by former Sen. Scott Brown at 30 percent, with a third of voters undecided. Brown’s support from “very conservative” voters suggests a potentially volatile race.

In projected November matchups, Pappas leads Brown 44–36 percent and edges Sununu 44–41 percent, placing both contests within striking distance. Observers expect heavy national investment as New Hampshire emerges as a top-tier battleground.

More: Anselm.edu

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