<p>Republican John E. Sununu was declared the winner of Tuesday’s New Hampshire GOP Senate primary, setting up a general election against Democratic nominee Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH).</p>
<p>The race was called for Sununu, a former New Hampshire senator, at 8 p.m. by the Associated Press. He received 69.6% of the vote compared to former Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown’s 25.2%, with 15% of the vote counted.</p>
<p>Sununu, who had the backing of the establishment and received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, has a more centrist approach, while his brother, former governor Chris Sununu, had previously opposed Trump. Brown aimed to attract grassroots conservative support.</p>
<p>The open seat is being vacated by retiring Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and is considered one of the most competitive races that could flip, which would impact Democrats’ chances of regaining Senate control. Currently, Republicans hold a 53-47 majority, requiring Democrats to gain at least four seats in November.</p>
<p>Republicans are optimistic about their chances due to close polling and Sununu’s statewide recognition. New Hampshire has a history of electing Republican governors while voting Democratic in presidential elections, and there is a gubernatorial race at the top of the ticket this year.</p>
<p>However, nonpartisan election forecasters suggest that Democrats have the advantage, labeling the seat as “lean” Democratic. Pappas won his primary against socialist candidate Karishma Manzur, avoiding a potential upset that could have highlighted the trend of progressive candidates challenging incumbents.</p>