Trump Ally Scott Brown Storms New Hampshire Senate Race

Paul Riverbank, 6/26/2025Trump ally Scott Brown enters New Hampshire Senate race, aiming to flip Democratic seat.

The timing couldn't be more strategic. With Sen. Jeanne Shaheen's retirement creating an open seat, Brown's early entry gives him something he didn't have in 2014: time. I remember his rushed campaign back then – it showed. This time around, he's already working the ground game, showing up at places like the Grafton County Republican Committee meetings and small-town diners where New Hampshire politics truly happens.

What makes this race particularly intriguing is how it fits into the broader Republican strategy for 2026. They're eyeing a trifecta: New Hampshire, Georgia, and Michigan. With their current 53-47 majority, Republicans see Brown as their best shot at solidifying control. But here's the catch – New Hampshire isn't the same state it was during Brown's 2014 run.

The Trump factor adds another layer of complexity. Brown's stint as Ambassador to New Zealand under Trump gives him both credentials and baggage. "I support him. I would love his support," he told Fox News, referencing his consistent Trump votes since 2016. It's a delicate balance in a state where Trump's influence has waned since 2020.

Rep. Chris Pappas, the likely Democratic nominee, presents a formidable challenge. Brown's already throwing punches, linking Pappas to Biden's policies on immigration and inflation. But Pappas has his own story to tell – he's built a reputation as a moderate Democrat who knows how to win in tough districts.

The primary field isn't settled yet. Phil Taub and State Sen. Dan Innis are testing the waters, and in New Hampshire, primary surprises aren't uncommon. Remember Eugene McCarthy in '68? New Hampshire voters have a habit of upending conventional wisdom.

Brown's campaign video struck a personal chord: "My life has been the American story," he said, expressing concern about his grandchildren's future. It's classic political messaging, but it resonates in a state where kitchen table issues often trump national party loyalty.

The next few months will be crucial. Brown needs to prove he's not just carpetbagging (again) while building a coalition that can flip a seat Democrats have held for nearly a decade. It won't be easy, but in New Hampshire, nothing political ever is.

Scott Brown's Senate bid announcement wasn't just another campaign launch – it marked a fascinating development in New Hampshire's ever-evolving political story. Having covered New England politics for over two decades, I've watched Brown's political journey with particular interest.The timing couldn't be more strategic. With Sen. Jeanne Shaheen's retirement creating an open seat, Brown's early entry gives him something he didn't have in 2014: time. I remember his rushed campaign back then – it showed. This time around, he's already working the ground game, showing up at places like the Grafton County Republican Committee meetings and small-town diners where New Hampshire politics truly happens.What makes this race particularly intriguing is how it fits into the broader Republican strategy for 2026. They're eyeing a trifecta: New Hampshire, Georgia, and Michigan. With their current 53-47 majority, Republicans see Brown as their best shot at solidifying control. But here's the catch – New Hampshire isn't the same state it was during Brown's 2014 run.The Trump factor adds another layer of complexity. Brown's stint as Ambassador to New Zealand under Trump gives him both credentials and baggage. "I support him. I would love his support," he told Fox News, referencing his consistent Trump votes since 2016. It's a delicate balance in a state where Trump's influence has waned since 2020.Rep. Chris Pappas, the likely Democratic nominee, presents a formidable challenge. Brown's already throwing punches, linking Pappas to Biden's policies on immigration and inflation. But Pappas has his own story to tell – he's built a reputation as a moderate Democrat who knows how to win in tough districts.The primary field isn't settled yet. Phil Taub and State Sen. Dan Innis are testing the waters, and in New Hampshire, primary surprises aren't uncommon. Remember Eugene McCarthy in '68? New Hampshire voters have a habit of upending conventional wisdom.Brown's campaign video struck a personal chord: "My life has been the American story," he said, expressing concern about his grandchildren's future. It's classic political messaging, but it resonates in a state where kitchen table issues often trump national party loyalty.The next few months will be crucial. Brown needs to prove he's not just carpetbagging (again) while building a coalition that can flip a seat Democrats have held for nearly a decade. It won't be easy, but in New Hampshire, nothing political ever is.