Former Senator Scott Brown is considering a potential run for Congress in 2026, potentially setting up a rematch with Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen in New Hampshire. Brown has been meeting with various Republican and conservative groups in the state, expressing his dissatisfaction with the current all-Democrat congressional delegation. Brown previously served as U.S. ambassador to New Zealand under President Trump and is now exploring a return to the Senate.
Brown first gained national attention in 2010 when he won a special U.S. Senate election in Massachusetts and later ran against Senator Elizabeth Warren. After moving to New Hampshire, Brown narrowly lost to Shaheen in the 2014 election. He has since remained politically active in the state, supporting his wife’s run for Congress and hosting events for Republican presidential candidates. Brown insists that despite previous accusations of being a carpetbagger, he has been fully engaged in New Hampshire politics for over a decade.
As Brown contemplates another Senate run, he acknowledges that timing is crucial. Having entered the race late in 2014, this time around he is preparing for an extended campaign, engaging with voters and participating in various events. Although a progressive group in New Hampshire has criticized Brown for attempting to seek power once more, he remains undeterred. With Senate Republicans eyeing New Hampshire as a key race in 2026, Brown’s potential candidacy carries weight as the GOP seeks to expand its majority in the chamber.
Brown’s potential rematch with Senator Shaheen comes as the Democratic Party faces a leadership shift, with Shaheen set to take over as the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. At 78 years old, age may become a factor in Shaheen’s decision to seek re-election. Brown has expressed admiration for Shaheen but believes it is ultimately up to her to decide. Despite the Democratic victories in recent elections in New Hampshire, Republicans view the upcoming 2026 race as a potential opportunity to gain ground in the state.
In the face of a changing political landscape in New Hampshire, Brown’s potential candidacy represents a bid to challenge the current Democratic dominance in the state. Having previously faced and narrowly lost to Senator Shaheen in 2014, Brown is poised to mount a more robust campaign this time around. With the backing of Republican and conservative groups, Brown is positioning himself as a viable contender for the Senate seat. As the GOP looks to strengthen its position in the Senate, Brown’s candidacy may play a significant role in the party’s efforts to expand its majority.
Amid speculation about his potential run for the Senate in 2026, Brown remains focused on engaging with voters and expanding his outreach efforts in New Hampshire. His background as a former senator, ambassador, and active participant in state politics gives him a unique perspective and experience that could resonate with constituents. As the political landscape evolves leading up to the 2026 elections, Brown’s decision to enter the race could have lasting implications for both the state of New Hampshire and the broader Republican Party.