Former Republican Senate candidate Don Bolduc’s decision to endorse Democrat Chris Pappas over Republican John E. Sununu in New Hampshire has drawn mixed reactions, with some welcoming the break from party loyalty while others question his motives. The endorsement has also reignited criticism of Sununu’s alignment with Donald Trump ahead of the November Senate election.
According to the Union Leader, Bolduc, a retired Army brigadier general who received Trump’s endorsement during his 2022 Senate campaign, cited Pappas’s work on veterans’ issues, bipartisan cooperation and economic challenges as reasons for supporting the Democrat. Pappas, a four-term congressman, has centered his campaign on lowering costs and representing New Hampshire residents.
Online commenters were divided over what the endorsement meant. “Did not have that on my bingo card, admittedly,” one user wrote. Some viewed it as evidence that traditional Republicans were becoming uncomfortable with the direction of the party under Trump. Others welcomed Bolduc’s willingness to support a candidate from across the aisle, arguing that policy priorities should matter more than party allegiance.
However, others were skeptical of Bolduc’s intentions. Several commenters pointed to his longstanding feud with former New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, John Sununu’s younger brother, suggesting personal animosity could have influenced his decision. During the 2022 Republican Senate primary, Bolduc criticized the former governor after he backed Bolduc’s opponent, Chuck Morse. Some users also questioned whether Bolduc’s past controversial statements made his endorsement particularly meaningful.
New Hampshire’s Senate Race Has Republicans Picking Sides
The discussion also turned toward Sununu, with critics accusing him of aligning himself too closely with Trump. His position on Social Security drew particular scrutiny, with commenters questioning his debate remarks about withholding proposed changes to avoid giving Pappas campaign material. Critics argued that voters deserved a clearer explanation of his plans for the program.
The endorsements have extended beyond Bolduc. Former state Sen. Rick Russman, Concord attorney James Steiner and former state official Sarah Stewart have also backed Pappas. Some have argued that Sununu’s political direction clashes with traditional Republican values.
Sununu’s campaign has pushed back. Spokesman Mike Schrimpf criticized Pappas’s voting record under former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and took aim at his planned campaign appearance with California Gov. Gavin Newsom, presenting the Democrat as firmly aligned with his party’s leadership.
Despite the backlash aimed at Sununu, not all commenters were convinced that Bolduc’s endorsement would make a difference in the race. Some supported Pappas, while others remained doubtful of both candidates and questioned whether the high-profile backing would influence voters.
The reaction ultimately showed divisions among Republicans, with Bolduc’s decision prompting debate over party loyalty, Trump’s influence and whether personal rivalries are shaping the contest for New Hampshire’s Senate seat.
