New Hampshire Voters to Head to Polls in November
The midterm elections on November 3, 2026, feature races for the U.S. Senate and the state's governorship.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Elections
Live Poll
Do you believe midterm elections lead to a better direction for the country?
New Hampshire voters will head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to decide the future of the state's U.S. Senate seat and gubernatorial office. These midterm contests could determine which party holds control of the U.S. Senate.
Why it matters
The outcome of these races may decide control of the U.S. Senate and whether Republicans maintain their hold on New Hampshire's governorship and both legislative chambers. Voters are weighing candidates amid national attention on the state's political direction.
Campaign fundraising totals show Chris Pappas has raised $23.7 million compared to $5.7 million by John E. Sununu. There are 238 jurisdictions administering local elections, with no automatic recounts available.
The players
John E. Sununu
He is the Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate seat who received an endorsement from the President of the United States in February.
Chris Pappas
He is the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate seat competing in the 2026 midterm cycle.
Kelly Ayotte
She is the incumbent Republican governor of New Hampshire who is currently seeking reelection.
Cinde Warmington
She is the Democratic candidate for governor challenging the incumbent Republican.
Jeanne Shaheen
She is the Democratic Senator who announced in 2025 that she would not seek a fourth term.
The details
Democratic candidate Chris Pappas and Republican contender John E. Sununu are competing for the Senate seat vacated by Jeanne Shaheen. Meanwhile, incumbent Republican governor Kelly Ayotte faces Democratic challenger Cinde Warmington in a state where polls have variable closing times and some towns utilize midnight voting.
Timeline
2004: State began voting for Democrats in presidential races.
2008: Jeanne Shaheen was first elected to the Senate.
2017: Republicans won the governorship.
2025: Jeanne Shaheen announced she would not seek reelection.
November 2026: New Hampshire midterm election day.
Political Context
The midterm election follows a legislative framework established by New Hampshire's recount threshold law. This election marks a departure from previous cycles by testing the endurance of Republican control established since 2017 against Democratic opposition.
Voters should be aware that polls will close at staggered times of 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m., and 8 p.m. across different jurisdictions. Because there are no automatic recounts, the margin of victory will determine whether a recount can be legally requested.
The takeaway
Understanding the staggered poll closing times is essential for voters planning their participation on Election Day. Residents should also verify their specific local polling jurisdiction to ensure their vote is cast before the doors close.
Further reading
For more information on the upcoming races, visit our New Hampshire elections coverage.
More information
To track the latest updates on the races, review the AP 2026 election coverage.
Live Poll
Do you believe midterm elections lead to a better direction for the country?
