Scott Brown, former Massachusetts senator, 2014 New Hampshire Senate nominee, and former U.S. ambassador to New Zealand, is seriously contemplating a return to Congress in 2026. This potential run sets the stage for a compelling rematch against incumbent Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, creating a potentially expensive and fiercely contested race in the crucial swing state of New Hampshire. Brown, a multifaceted individual who balances his political aspirations with a demanding physical regimen and a music career, is actively engaging with the political landscape, meeting with various Republican and conservative groups throughout the state. He is framing his potential candidacy as a response to the current all-Democrat congressional delegation, criticizing their alignment with President Biden’s policies and arguing that he could better represent the interests of New Hampshire residents.
Brown’s political career has been marked by surprising victories and narrow defeats. His 2010 special election win in heavily Democratic Massachusetts to fill the late Senator Ted Kennedy’s seat garnered national attention. However, he lost his re-election bid in 2012 to Elizabeth Warren and subsequently moved back to New Hampshire, the state of his childhood and ancestral roots. His 2014 Senate run against Shaheen ended in a narrow loss. Despite these setbacks, Brown has remained active in the political sphere, hosting numerous presidential candidates from both parties at his “Backyard BBQs,” showcasing his ability to connect with diverse political figures. His endorsement of Donald Trump in the 2016 New Hampshire primary led to his appointment as ambassador to New Zealand, a post he held for four years.
Following his ambassadorship, Brown returned to New Hampshire and supported his wife Gail’s unsuccessful congressional run in 2022. He continued his tradition of hosting presidential hopefuls, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., further cementing his role as a significant figure in New Hampshire politics. With ample time before the 2026 election, Brown is embarking on a deliberate and extensive outreach effort, contrasting this approach with his previous, more compressed campaign timeline. He aims to address previous criticisms of being a “carpetbagger” by emphasizing his long-standing ties to New Hampshire, including three decades of property ownership and over a decade of full-time residency.
Brown’s potential candidacy presents a challenge for Democrats in a state that has increasingly favored them in recent Senate races. While Shaheen won her 2020 re-election bid by a substantial margin and Senator Maggie Hassan also secured a comfortable victory in 2022, Republicans view New Hampshire as a potential pickup opportunity in 2026, alongside Georgia and Michigan. The GOP’s success in retaining the governorship with Kelly Ayotte’s victory and expanding their legislative majorities suggests a shifting political landscape, further fueled by Trump’s improved performance in the state during the 2024 presidential election. This confluence of factors creates an environment potentially favorable to a Republican challenger like Brown.
Brown’s potential run also raises the question of former President Trump’s role in the race. Brown has indicated he would welcome Trump’s involvement on the campaign trail, acknowledging the former president’s influence in New Hampshire. This potential alliance could energize the Republican base but also risks alienating moderate voters in a swing state. Shaheen’s decision on whether to seek re-election will be a pivotal factor in the race’s dynamics. Her long and distinguished career in New Hampshire politics, coupled with her upcoming leadership role on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, positions her as a formidable opponent. However, her age, a factor Brown subtly alludes to, could become a campaign issue.
The potential Shaheen-Brown rematch promises to be a highly watched contest with significant implications for the balance of power in the Senate. Brown’s focus on connecting with voters, his criticism of the current Democratic delegation, and the shifting political tides in New Hampshire create an unpredictable race. Shaheen’s decision on whether to run, her potential vulnerabilities, and the role of national figures like Donald Trump will further shape the narrative of this crucial Senate battle. The race will likely revolve around key issues such as the economy, border security, and the overall direction of the country, offering voters a stark choice between two experienced but contrasting political figures.
