Former Republican Sen. John E. Sununu is seriously exploring a bid to return to the Senate in his home state of New Hampshire, multiple sources familiar with his plans tell CBS News.

The former senator, part of the influential Sununu political dynasty, has been viewed as a top recruit for Republicans ahead of next year's midterm elections. Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen is not running for reelection in 2026, leaving the field wide open.

A source close to the White House confirmed to CBS News that senior officials have given their blessing to a potential Sununu campaign. The news was first reported by NOTUS .

New Hampshire has been a favorable state for Republicans running for governor in recent years, but is a more difficult challenge in Senate contests. No Republican has won a S

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