New Hampshire voters pick nominees as Sen. Shaheen’s exit sparks a scramble for key seats

New Hampshire voters are heading to the polls on Tuesday to select candidates for crucial positions, such as Congress, governor, and the state Legislature. The elections come shortly after U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen announced she would not run for re-election, leading to a series of competitive races.

In the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate seat, former U.S. Senators John E. Sununu and Scott Brown are among the eight contenders vying to fill the vacancy left by Shaheen's departure. Sununu, who served six years in the House and one term in the Senate before losing to Shaheen in 2008, has been focusing on issues like affordable housing, healthcare, and energy, as well as holding Congress accountable and serving constituents.

Brown, previously representing Massachusetts, ran for the Senate seat in 2010 after the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy but lost in 2012. He has returned to the race due to the lack of Republican representation in Congress and his belief that his diverse experience makes him a strong candidate.

The race for the Democratic nomination in the U.S. Senate includes Rep. Chris Pappas, whose departure from his 1st Congressional District seat attracted several candidates. Shaheen's daughter, Stefany Shaheen, and former candidate Maura Sullivan are among the five Democratic hopefuls. Pappas, who raised more funds than his Republican opponents, has seen his lead in polls dip recently.

In the House races, New Hampshire voters will also select a replacement for Rep. Maggie Goodlander, who is facing a primary challenge from Paige Beachemin, a progressive state lawmaker and nurse. In the Republican primary, Republican incumbent Kelly Ayotte is up for re-election, facing two little-known opponents: Cinde Warmington, a healthcare attorney, and Lily Tang Williams, who previously ran for the seat and is making her third attempt.

Down ballot races, such as the gubernatorial election, are also in play. Republican Kelly Ayotte is seeking a second two-year term against two little-known opponents, while Cinde Warmington, a healthcare attorney, is unopposed for the Democratic nomination. Voters will also be nominating candidates for various other positions in the state legislature.