Trump offers support for Sununu for open Senate seat

During the 2024 election cycle, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu was an open advocate for Nikki Haley.

Sununu and Trump were not exactly buddies before that, and surely not after, but Trump just extended an olive branch that I am sure surprised quite a few people.

"I’m backing Nikki"

Sununu was never really behind Trump, and once the race appeared to be between Haley and Trump, Sununu took the opportunity to back Haley, while also taking a shot at Trump.

In endorsing Haley, Sununu stated, “This is an opportunity for New Hampshire to lead this country, for New Hampshire to say we’re not looking in the rearview mirror anymore.”

He also sent a message to Trump, “Thank you for your service, Mr. President, we’re moving on. This is New Hampshire, and we go forward.”

Sununu later told the media, “This is a race between two people: Nikki Haley and Donald Trump. That’s it. Nikki’s spent the time on the ground here, she’s earned people’s trust, and that’s going to be the real decider.”

Trump backs Sununu

There have been a lot of rumors that Sununu may decide to move over to the Senate, and if he does make that move, Trump is now supporting Sununu for the seat.

This week, Trump stated, "I told him — He came to my office, came to the Oval Office, and [I] met with Chris Sununu, and I support him fully. I hope he runs.

"He’s been very nice to me over the last year or so, but no, I hope he runs. I think he’ll win that seat."

Sununu had already told the press that he thought Trump would support his run, stating, "I have no doubt I'd have the president's support.”

Not happening

That little exchange had everyone amped up about Sununu running, especially since Democrats control both seats right now.

If there was anyone who could pry that seat away from the Democrats, it would be Sununu, who remains very popular in a state that is not very Republican friendly.

Then, on Tuesday, Sununu decided to put the rumors to rest, confirming that he would not be running for the seat, stating, “No, I’m not going to run.” He also stated that he had informed Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) who is the chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, that he would not be running.

This is a shame because Sununu would have easily won that race, in my opinion. I just don’t know any other Republicans in that state who have the profile or approval rating that can threaten the Democrats. This could be a huge lost opportunity for the GOP.