Preparing to Vote: See Where Candidates in New Hampshire Stand on Key Issues
New Hampshire’s 2026 midterm election will give voters the opportunity to weigh competing priorities at the state and federal levels. Before casting a ballot, residents can compare how candidates approach issues affecting daily life, the economy, national security and government policy.
Governor’s race
The candidates seeking New Hampshire’s governorship have outlined positions on several issues with direct consequences for residents. Among the topics to consider are the state’s housing shortage, healthcare access and the potential growth of data centers.
Voters may also want to examine each candidate’s plans for energy policy, including affordability, reliability and the future of the state’s power infrastructure. Their views on immigration and the war in Iran could also help clarify how they would respond to national and international developments from the governor’s office.
U.S. Senate candidates
The Senate contest offers another opportunity to compare policy priorities. Candidates’ positions on energy, healthcare, immigration and international affairs may influence how they would approach federal legislation and oversight.
The conflict in Iran is among the foreign-policy issues voters may wish to review. Domestic concerns—including the cost of living, access to medical care and the direction of national energy policy—are also expected to shape the debate.
1st Congressional District
Residents of New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District will choose among candidates with differing perspectives on the role of money in politics, employment and economic opportunity.
Bipartisanship is another central issue in the race. Voters can consider whether candidates favor cooperation across party lines and how they would work with colleagues in Congress to advance legislation.
2nd Congressional District
In the 2nd Congressional District, key policy questions include tariffs, impeachment and artificial intelligence.
Tariff policies can affect businesses, consumers and international trade, while impeachment raises questions about congressional oversight and accountability. Artificial intelligence is also becoming a major legislative concern, with implications for innovation, employment, privacy and public safety.
What voters should review
Before voting, residents should compare candidates’ answers on the issues most important to them and look beyond individual campaign slogans. Examining policy proposals, leadership priorities and approaches to cooperation can provide a clearer picture of what each candidate would seek to accomplish in office.
Reviewing the races and understanding the choices on the ballot can help New Hampshire voters participate with greater confidence in the 2026 midterm election.
