New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu Decides Against Senate Run
Blow to Republicans as Popular Governor Declines to Challenge Democratic Incumbent
Former Congressman and Governor Says He's Focused on Leading the Granite State
In a major setback for Republicans, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu announced on Tuesday that he will not run for the U.S. Senate in 2022. The announcement is a blow to the GOP's hopes of unseating Democratic incumbent Maggie Hassan, who is seeking re-election.
Sununu, 56, is a popular figure in New Hampshire. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1997 to 2003 before being elected governor in 2016. He is known for his pragmatic approach to politics and his ability to work with both Democrats and Republicans.
Republicans had been eager for Sununu to run for Senate. They believe that he would have been a strong candidate against Hassan, who has been criticized for her support of President Biden's agenda.
However, Sununu says he is focused on leading New Hampshire through the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges.
"I am not going to run for the U.S. Senate in 2022," Sununu said in a statement. "I am focused on leading New Hampshire through the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges. I am confident that we can come out of this stronger than ever before."
Sununu's decision is a major disappointment for Republicans. They are now left with a limited field of candidates to challenge Hassan.
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