Sen Shaheen’s daughter launches NH congressional bid, targets Trump and Musk
Stefany Shaheen, the eldest daughter of longtime Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, has officially announced her candidacy for the U.S. House in the open seat race in New Hampshire’s competitive 1st Congressional District. Following in her mother’s political footsteps, Shaheen wasted no time in targeting President Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, and Republicans in Congress.
In a campaign launch video, Shaheen highlighted her advocacy for healthcare, specifically for her daughter Elle who has Type 1 diabetes. This personal experience has turned Shaheen into a fierce fighter for medical research and innovation to help not only her daughter but millions of others facing similar health challenges. She expressed her commitment to fighting against Trump’s cuts to medical research and healthcare, emphasizing her dedication to standing up for families in need.
Shaheen also criticized Musk for driving out top scientists and doctors and accused Kennedy of allowing preventable diseases like measles to spread due to his belief in conspiracy theories over proven vaccines. These strong stances on healthcare and science are at the core of Shaheen’s campaign platform.
However, the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) has already launched attacks on Shaheen, labeling her as a “DC elitist” and criticizing her family’s political legacy. Despite this, Shaheen remains determined to run for the seat currently held by four-term Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas, who is now campaigning to succeed her mother in the Senate.
The 78-year-old Senator Jeanne Shaheen announced earlier this year that she would not seek re-election in 2026, paving the way for a new generation of leaders like Stefany Shaheen and rival Maura Sullivan. Sullivan, a Marine veteran and former Democratic primary runner-up, has also entered the race, setting up a potentially competitive primary battle.
New Hampshire’s 1st District, a historically swing district, is expected to be a key battleground in the upcoming midterm elections. Republicans are aiming to flip the seat, with candidates like Chris Bright and former nominee Russell Prescott vying for the GOP nomination. The race is likely to be competitive and expensive, with both parties mobilizing to secure victory in this crucial district.
As the campaign heats up, New Hampshire residents can expect to see a fierce battle of ideas and policies, with healthcare, science, and economic issues taking center stage. The outcome of this race could have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress, making it a race to watch in the months ahead.
