Senate Republicans urge popular New Hampshire Gov. Sununu to run for Senate seat

Sununu could break the current 50-50 split in the Senate in favor of the Republicans.
Gov. Chris Sununu.
By Nicholas Sherman

Senate Republicans are encouraging New Hampshire GOP Gov. Chris Sununu to challenge incumbent Democrat Sen. Maggie Hassan in 2022, saying his voter popularity gives them a good opportunity to retake control of the Senate.

"He'd be a great candidate. We're hoping he'd make the race," said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who has personally lobbied Sununu, according to Politico. 

Sununu is a three-term governor who won reelection last year by 30 points, despite President Trump failing to carry the state.

The Senate is now split 50-50 between Democrats and Republicans.

"If he runs, we'll win," Florida GOP Sen. Rick Scott said of Sununu.

Sununu is expected to decide later this year, after the state legislature's session ends next month.