In A Blow To Democrats, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen Will Not Seek Reelection In New Hampshire

Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire will not seek reelection next year, a decision that will end the longtime senator's historic political career and deals a significant blow to Democrats, who were already facing a difficult path to reclaiming the Senate majority .

Shaheen, who turned 78 in January, was the first woman elected to serve as both governor and senator in the United States. A spokesperson confirmed her decision not to seek reelection on Wednesday.

Even before Shaheen's move, Democrats were facing a challenging political map in next year's midterm elections - especially in the Senate, where Republicans now hold 53 seats compared with the Democrats' 47, including two independents who caucus with Democrats.

The party that controls the Senate majority also controls President Donald Trump's most important political and judicial nominations - and his legislative agenda .

At least for now, Maine represents the Democrats' best pickup opportunity in 2026. Republican Sen. Susan Collins, the sole GOP senator remaining in New England, is the only Republican serving in a state Trump lost who's up for reelection.