In a striking cross-party move, retired Army Brig. Gen. Don Bolduc—who ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in 2022 with former President Trump's endorsement—announced Friday that he is backing Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas in New Hampshire's open Senate contest.
Pappas, the Democratic nominee, faces Republican John E. Sununu in the November election to succeed retiring Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D). Bolduc's endorsement, shared with the New Hampshire Union Leader, adds a notable Republican voice to Pappas's campaign.
Bolduc praised Pappas for his “unwavering dedication to our veterans” and his focus on “bipartisan cooperation.” He added that Pappas's “ability to navigate the complex landscape of our economy, tackle the national debt with a steady hand, and work towards solutions that bridge divides is especially critical in today’s challenging political climate.”
Pappas welcomed the endorsement on social media Friday morning, framing it as part of a broader coalition. “We’re building a growing coalition of Republicans, Democrats, and independents who are willing to put country before party and work toward a better future,” he wrote. “Grateful to everyone who’s joining this team.”
The endorsement comes as Pappas maintains a consistent lead in public polling. A New Hampshire Institute of Politics survey released Tuesday showed him ahead by seven points among likely voters, while a September New York Times/Siena College poll put his advantage at five points. The Cook Political Report recently shifted its rating of the race from “toss up” to “lean Democratic,” reflecting growing confidence in Pappas's position.
Bolduc's backing is notable given his own history with Trump and his prior criticism of Pappas during his 2022 campaign. His decision to cross party lines underscores the unusual dynamics of this race, where Sununu—a former senator and brother of the current governor—has struggled to gain traction against Pappas's moderate profile.
Sununu's campaign has sought to paint Pappas as a rubber stamp for Democratic leadership, but Pappas has emphasized bipartisan achievements and his work on veterans' issues. The endorsement from Bolduc, a decorated military veteran, could help Pappas appeal to independent and moderate Republican voters in a state known for ticket-splitting.
Political analysts note that endorsements from former rivals rarely shift polls dramatically, but they can shape narratives. “It's a symbolic boost that reinforces Pappas's message of cooperation,” said one Granite State political observer. “Whether it moves votes remains to be seen, but it adds to the perception that Sununu is running behind.”
The race is one of a handful that could determine control of the Senate. With Shaheen's retirement, New Hampshire has become a key battleground, and both parties are pouring resources into the contest. Pappas's fundraising and polling edge have made him a favored target for national Republicans, but Bolduc's endorsement may complicate their efforts to unify the GOP base.
As the campaign enters its final stretch, the focus will be on turnout and message discipline. Pappas's coalition-building approach, now bolstered by Bolduc's support, stands in contrast to Sununu's more traditional Republican appeal. Whether that contrast resonates with voters will be tested at the ballot box.
