Pappas calls New Hampshire Senate contest a tough race

Democrat Chris Pappas said on October 11 that he was not treating victory in New Hampshire's U.S. Senate election as assured. Speaking on CBS, he described the contest against Republican John Sununu as a tough race.

Pappas, who has represented the state in the House since 2019, appeared on Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan. He said the remaining 23 days of campaigning would focus on reaching independent and swing voters, energising supporters and appealing to Republicans.

The candidates are competing for Jeanne Shaheen's seat after she decided against seeking re-election. Sununu previously represented New Hampshire in both chambers of Congress and lost his Senate re-election bid to Shaheen in 2008.

Pappas acknowledged his opponent's family's prominence in state politics but linked Sununu's candidacy to Donald Trump's agenda. In the Democrat's assessment, the outcome would affect Congress's ability to hold the presidential administration accountable.

Asked about Democratic priorities if the party wins a congressional majority, Pappas pointed to affordable housing, lower energy costs and healthcare. He also called for ending the war with Iran.

On Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the candidate urged limits on abuses. He said enforcement should target the most dangerous criminals while respecting due process. Pappas noted that Trump would remain president for another two years, making available congressional levers important for Democrats.