AGP Executive Report

U.S. Senate Race: Chris Pappas and John Sununu clashed over Social Security at an AARP forum, with Pappas urging higher taxes on wealthy earners and Sununu defending his past private-account proposal. Their campaigns also traded fire: a Republican super PAC revived Pappas’ 2011 game-show appearance, while Cinde Warmington filed a complaint over an ad attacking her energy plan. House Race: Speaker Mike Johnson campaigned in Portsmouth with Republican Anthony DiLorenzo, predicting a win over Democrat Stefany Shaheen in the closely watched NH-01 contest. Voting: Absentee ballots for the Nov. 3 general election are now available through local clerks; New Hampshire voters must meet state eligibility rules to vote absentee. Schools and Tuition: Bedford school leaders warn the proposed property-tax cap could mean a $1.4 million budget cut. Gov. Kelly Ayotte, meanwhile, is proposing free community-college tuition for students from families earning up to $100,000, subject to legislative approval. Election Rules: The FCC is weighing a waiver that could loosen restrictions on political robocalls, including AI-generated voices—a live concern in New Hampshire after the 2024 fake Biden robocall scandal.

Campaign 2026: Chris Pappas and John Sununu traded attacks in their first U.S. Senate debate, as former Vice President Kamala Harris prepares to campaign for Pappas in New Hampshire on Oct. 24. Election Rules: The RNC has backed New Hampshire in its fight over student voter ID rules, while the legal dispute continues. Separately, the FCC is weighing a waiver that could allow political robocalls to cellphones without consent—a proposal drawing scrutiny in the state where a fake Biden-voice robocall targeted voters in 2024. Senate Stakes: New Hampshire political operative Aaron Day is taking his spoiler-candidate strategy nationwide, targeting the state among eight where he hopes to boost third-party candidates and cost Republicans Senate seats. Housing: A bipartisan New Hampshire Forum produced six proposals to make housing more affordable; state lawmakers will consider which to turn into bills for 2027. Schools and Energy: A new report warns New Hampshire faces persistent teacher recruitment and retention challenges. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen joined a bipartisan group urging President Trump to reverse his Russian diesel deal, arguing it could help finance Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Senate Race: Chris Pappas and John Sununu traded jabs in their first debate, disputing their records and how closely Sununu is tied to President Trump. They also clashed over Social Security, with Sununu declining to detail proposed changes. Voting Rules: The Republican National Committee urged a federal judge to uphold New Hampshire’s new limits on student IDs at the polls. A separate FCC proposal could loosen restrictions on political robocalls, including AI-generated calls—a notable issue in New Hampshire after a fake Biden-voice robocall targeted voters in 2024. YDC Abuse Cases: Survivors are watching Wednesday’s state Supreme Court arguments over Gov. Kelly Ayotte’s changes to the settlement fund; the ruling could affect how hundreds resolve claims of abuse in state custody. Russia Sanctions: Sen. Jeanne Shaheen joined a bipartisan group urging Trump to reverse his Russian diesel deal, arguing it could aid Moscow’s war effort and violate federal law.

Housing Policy: A first New Hampshire Forum brought 55 residents from across the political spectrum together to propose six ways to make housing more affordable. A bipartisan group of lawmakers will consider turning them into bills for 2027. Voting Access: A legal fight over student IDs remains unresolved: a federal judge blocked the secretary of state’s directive barring their use, but the law removing student IDs from the list of accepted voter identification remains in effect, and the state has sought a stay. U.S. Senate Race: A new Cook Political Report rating shifted New Hampshire’s open Senate contest from toss-up to lean Democratic, as Chris Pappas faces Republican John Sununu. Russia Sanctions: Sen. Jeanne Shaheen joined five Democrats and Republicans urging President Trump to reverse his decision to allow Russian diesel imports, saying it violates a 2022 law and was made without required consultation with Congress. Teacher Workforce: A new state analysis warns New Hampshire may need as many as 1,100 new teachers a year, citing fewer education graduates, looming retirements and low pay—even as student enrollment has fallen.

Voting Rights: Democratic congressional nominee Stefany Shaheen backed the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which would give the federal government a say in state election rules and let voters use sworn affidavits instead of photo ID. A New Hampshire poll found 76% support voter ID requirements. Campaign Accountability: Republican Rep. Ross Berry asked prosecutors to pursue misdemeanor charges against Democratic operative Sebastian Fuentes, alleging he falsely portrayed 136 GOP candidates as Free State Project-endorsed in 78 social media graphics. Senate Race: Chris Pappas and John Sununu are set for their first debate Tuesday, as the campaigns face questions about how much debates sway voters. A separate report says candidates are also sparring over property taxes and school funding. Federal Policy: U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen joined a bipartisan group urging President Trump to reverse his Russian diesel deal, arguing it conflicts with a 2022 law barring Russian energy imports. Concord Courts: A second unhoused man has sued over New Hampshire’s loitering law, arguing it gives police too much discretion; the ACLU wants the case joined with an earlier challenge.

Election Rules: The FCC is weighing whether to ease limits on political robocalls, including AI-generated calls, ahead of the midterms. The proposal echoes concerns in New Hampshire, where a consultant was fined over a 2024 fake Biden robocall. Foreign Policy: Sen. Jeanne Shaheen joined six Republicans and Democrats urging President Trump to reverse a Russian diesel deal, saying it conflicts with the law banning Russian energy imports and would help fund Moscow’s war on Ukraine. Senate Race: Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg campaigned across New Hampshire with Chris Pappas, endorsing the Democratic Senate candidate and urging supporters to help him win. Public Schools: State education officials reminded districts that, under a new law, education freedom account students must be allowed to join public-school classes and activities without extra fees, unless programs are at capacity.

Senate Race: Democrat Chris Pappas says his campaign is taking nothing for granted with 23 days until Election Day. He argues affordability must remain Congress’s priority, while calling for significant immigration reform and a more targeted approach to enforcement. Russia Diesel Deal: New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen joined five colleagues from both parties urging President Trump to reverse his plan to buy Russian diesel. The senators say the deal could send money to Moscow while Russia attacks Ukraine, and argue the administration failed to follow requirements to consult Congress. Voting Access: UNH is offering students rides to the polls, as reports highlight barriers they face in voting.

Senate Race: New Hampshire’s contest between Chris Pappas and John Sununu is drawing national attention as a potential decider of Senate control. Campaign coverage points to unaffiliated voters as pivotal, while Sen. Andy Kim of New Jersey joined Democrats canvassing in Manchester. Voting Access: UNH is offering rides to polling places and urging students to check registration and ID requirements. A federal judge upheld the state’s ban on student IDs as voting identification, and the secretary of state is seeking an emergency stay. Court Oversight: Garry Rayno’s analysis says the controversy involving former Supreme Court Chief Justice Gordon MacDonald could widen, focusing on questions about the court’s handling of the matter. Medicaid: A Valley News opinion warns that new federal work and documentation requirements could interrupt coverage and strain rural services in Grafton and Sullivan counties. Local Races: Merrimack’s District 30 candidates, Jason Quinno and Robert Washburn, are facing off, with Quinno calling for grants to help towns revise zoning to address the housing shortage.

Campaign Trail: U.S. Sen. Andy Kim of New Jersey joined New Hampshire Democrats canvassing in Manchester as the midterms near. UNH is arranging rides to polling places and voter-registration drives, while students face added uncertainty after a federal judge upheld the state’s ban on student IDs as voting identification. State Politics: In his Distant Dome column, Garry Rayno questions whether the New Hampshire Supreme Court’s handling of the Dianne Martin matter could widen into a larger controversy, pointing to Republican control of state government and the court. Police Accountability: A Peterborough officer has returned to duty after a fatal off-duty shooting; the victim’s family is seeking a separate review of whether the officer’s gun was properly discharged, a request the attorney general’s office says existing protocols do not require. Public Protest: About 64 people marched to Sig Sauer’s Newington headquarters to oppose the company’s weapons and drone work with Israeli partners.

Senate Race: New Hampshire’s contest between Democrat Chris Pappas and Republican John Sununu remains a toss-up in a new polling snapshot, with control of the Senate at stake. Voting Rules: A federal judge upheld the state law barring student IDs as voter identification, and New Hampshire is asking an appeals court to keep the restriction in place ahead of Election Day. Local Campaigns: Candidates in Sullivan County’s House District 8 are clashing over affordability and school funding, while Belknap County’s District 1 race pits four-term Rep. Tom Ploszaj against challenger Amber Schaefer. Legal Accountability: Lebanon attorney Stephen Girdwood faces disbarment after the state discipline office accused him of taking nearly $500,000 in client funds; a criminal investigation is ongoing. Police Oversight: Jack Hutchings’ family is seeking an independent review of the investigation into his fatal shooting by an off-duty Peterborough officer; the Attorney General’s Office says deadly force is the central legal question. Town Government: Former state Sen. Jeanie Forrester will become New Hampton’s town administrator in November.

Senate Race: New Hampshire’s contest between Democrat Chris Pappas and Republican John E. Sununu is among the nation’s tightest and could help decide control of the Senate. In the open 1st District House race, Democrat Stefany Shaheen faces Trump-endorsed Republican Anthony DiLorenzo. Police Accountability: A Peterborough officer involved in a fatal off-duty shooting has returned to work. The victim’s family is seeking an independent review; the attorney general’s office says a separate investigation is not required. Voting Access: A federal judge upheld New Hampshire’s student voter ID restrictions, while the state is asking an appeals court to ensure student IDs cannot be used to vote. Students say the rules may create barriers at the polls. State Oversight: Democrats are seeking answers from Gov. Kelly Ayotte and Attorney General John Formella about Formella’s trips and the state Supreme Court. Flood Recovery: Madison and other Carroll County communities can seek federal aid for damage from June’s flooding after President Trump approved a disaster declaration.

Sullivan County Races: In District 8, Democratic incumbents Hope Damon and Samuel Deering are pitching affordability, while Republicans Jon Stone and Cathy Peschke say spending restraint and rejecting new taxes are the answer. In Sunapee and Springfield, Democrat Judy Thackaberry says more state school aid could ease property taxes; Republican incumbent George Grant backs a school tax cap and education vouchers. Voting Access: A federal judge upheld New Hampshire’s ban on student IDs as voter identification, adding to concerns about barriers for college voters. The state has no early voting or no-excuse absentee ballots. Separately, the Trump administration won’t invite international monitors for the November midterms, ending a practice dating to 2002. Senate Campaign: Democrat Chris Pappas says he would expand heating assistance, suspend the federal gas tax and support housing incentives, while opposing Social Security benefit cuts. State Investigation: New Hampshire’s attorney general is investigating after a woman was fatally shot by law enforcement near Bath during a vehicle pursuit. Insulin Costs: Sen. Jeanne Shaheen’s proposed INSULIN Act would cap monthly costs at $35 for people with private insurance and establish a pilot program for uninsured patients.

Senate Race: New Hampshire’s contest between Democrat Chris Pappas and Republican John Sununu remains close, with recent polls pointing in different directions. Candidates in competitive Senate races are also facing questions about Social Security’s projected 2032 benefit cuts. Governor’s Race: Gov. Kelly Ayotte won the National Federation of Independent Business endorsement, citing business tax cuts; Democratic challenger Cinde Warmington visited a Berlin lumberyard and emphasized support for small businesses. Voting Rights: A federal judge declined to block New Hampshire’s restriction on student IDs at the polls. Students remain uncertain about what identification they can use, as state officials seek to enforce the law. Government Accountability: Democrats are pressing Ayotte and Attorney General John Formella for answers about more than $71,000 in travel reimbursements Formella and aides received from a group tied to Jan. 6. Energy: New Hampshire has launched a $1 million program to expand its electric-vehicle charging network.

Senate Race: Chris Pappas leads John Sununu in recent polling, though the contest remains a major target for national Republicans. Sununu’s allies are spending heavily as affordability concerns shape the race. House Debate: In New Hampshire’s 1st District, Stefany Shaheen and Anthony DiLorenzo clashed over how to lower costs. Shaheen cited tariffs and health care; DiLorenzo blamed federal fiscal mismanagement. Health Care: CVS Health and WellSense are leaving the state’s Medicare Advantage market in 2027, and Coös County will have no plans available. Separately, the state settled a five-year lawsuit over its in-home care program. Election Rules and Oversight: The state Supreme Court upheld a law barring student IDs for voting, prompting the secretary of state to seek an emergency stay. Democrats are also demanding answers from Gov. Kelly Ayotte and Attorney General John Formella about trips funded by a group with ties to Jan. 6 rioters. Child Care and Transportation: New Hampshire’s $1 million grant program aims to expand EV charging at tourism sites, while child care remains scarce: programs fell 14% from 2017 to 2025, and new providers face hurdles filling the gap.

Senate Race: New Hampshire’s contest between Democrat Chris Pappas and Republican John Sununu is drawing heavy outside spending and national attention. Pappas and Sununu are sharpening their pitches on affordability, while Americans for Prosperity Action is knocking doors for Sununu. Voting Rules: A federal judge upheld New Hampshire’s ban on student IDs as voter identification. Secretary of State David Scanlan is seeking an emergency stay. Attorney General Scrutiny: Democratic lawmakers are pressing Gov. Kelly Ayotte to address reports that Attorney General John Formella and aides received more than $71,000 in travel reimbursements from a group tied to Jan. 6 rally organizing. Education Policy: With federal scholarship tax-credit rules taking shape, questions are growing over whether a Gov. Cinde Warmington would join states rejecting the program. Warmington previously opposed accepting federal education money that benefited charter schools. In-Home Care: The state has agreed to settle a five-year lawsuit over gaps in Medicaid-funded home care for seniors and people with disabilities; a federal judge must approve the deal.

Election Rules: New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan plans to seek an emergency stay after a federal judge ruled student IDs can be used for voting, arguing the change so close to the election could confuse voters. The FCC is also weighing looser rules for political robocalls, including AI voices—a concern in New Hampshire, where an AI-generated Biden call misled voters in 2024. NH-01: Democrat Stefany Shaheen and Republican Anthony DiLorenzo clashed over health care, affordability and their records in their first debate. Senate Race: Cook Political Report shifted New Hampshire’s Senate contest from a toss-up to “lean Democrat.” A separate AARP poll gives Chris Pappas a seven-point lead over John Sununu, while Gov. Kelly Ayotte also leads by seven. Household Costs: A new report says water bills in New Hampshire rose about twice as fast as household incomes over the past decade, as bills nationwide climbed 62%. Public Safety: A state review panel says domestic violence accounted for 44 of New Hampshire’s 68 homicides from 2022 through 2025 and recommends stronger protections, including dispatcher training and tougher penalties for repeat offenders.