Former Ambassador Scott Brown announces GOP Senate run in New Hampshire, pledging to challenge Democrats and back Trump’s agenda.

Scott Brown Announces Senate Campaign in Key Battleground

Scott Brown, former U.S. ambassador and Massachusetts senator, officially launched his Republican campaign for U.S. Senate in New Hampshire on Wednesday. In a campaign video, Brown declared his intent to “help secure America’s future and deliver results for New Hampshire families,” referencing concerns about the nation’s direction for future generations. The announcement, released first nationally, signals the opening salvo in what is expected to be a fiercely contested and high-stakes race to succeed retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen in 2026.

Brown, who previously served as ambassador to New Zealand under President Donald Trump, becomes the first major Republican to enter the race. New Hampshire, with its long-standing tradition as a political battleground, is one of the GOP’s top three targets—alongside Georgia and Michigan—as Republicans seek to expand their 53–47 Senate majority.

Challenging Democratic Leadership, Backing Trump’s Agenda

In his campaign launch, Brown criticized the all-Democratic congressional delegation representing New Hampshire, arguing they are “out of touch with the values of New Hampshire.” He pledged to “help save America and protect our New Hampshire advantage,” citing the state’s distinctive economic and social strengths. Brown specifically targeted Rep. Chris Pappas, a leading contender for the Democratic nomination, as well as former President Joe Biden. Brown accused both of supporting “soaring inflation, open borders, rising crime and extreme-left policies,” and said, “It’s time for a change.”

Brown emphasized his longstanding support for President Trump, stating he voted for Trump in the 2016, 2020, and 2024 elections. He praised Trump’s recent decision to launch military strikes against Iranian nuclear sites, calling it “brilliant” and asserting that “the president did the right thing.” Brown contrasted his stance with Pappas, who stated he was “monitoring the situation in Iran closely.”

The New Hampshire Democratic Party responded by branding Brown a “Trump loyalist” with an “extreme record on abortion.” While Brown is the first major Republican to declare, several others, including businessman Phil Taub and state Sen. Dan Innis, are reportedly considering campaigns, indicating a potentially competitive GOP primary.

Brown’s Political Roots and Path Back to New Hampshire

Scott Brown first drew national attention in 2010 when he won a special Senate election in Massachusetts. After losing his seat to Elizabeth Warren in 2012, Brown moved to New Hampshire, where he ran an unsuccessful but close race against Shaheen in 2014. He later served as U.S. ambassador in Trump’s administration before returning to New Hampshire, where he and his wife have remained politically active, hosting prominent Republican figures at campaign events and continuing to build their grassroots network.

Since late last year, Brown has traveled extensively across New Hampshire, connecting with conservative groups and local voters to lay the groundwork for his 2026 campaign. He emphasized the advantages of a longer campaign season, noting that he is now able to visit more communities than during his previous Senate run. At age 65, Brown remains an active presence both politically and personally, competing in triathlons and performing with his rock band.

With New Hampshire’s Senate race shaping up as a top-tier battleground, Brown’s entry marks a critical development in the 2026 election cycle. The outcome will help determine control of the U.S. Senate and shape the national political landscape in the years ahead.