Story perspectives

Maura Sullivan Leads New Hampshire Primary 33%–27%

9/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Polls show Maura Sullivan leading Stefany Shaheen 33%-27% in New Hampshire’s 1st District Democratic primary.
Stefany Shaheen has raised nearly $740,000, with 39% from donors who previously gave to Sen. Jeanne Shaheen.
Shaheen aired ads accusing Sullivan of AIPAC backing; Sullivan says she receives no AIPAC money.
Shaheen earned Sen. Maggie Hassan’s endorsement while Sullivan, a Democratic vice chair, received VoteVets backing.

History

Historical Context

In 2008, Barack Obama’s upset victory in New Hampshire’s Democratic primary reshaped fundraising dynamics for the Democratic Party and propelled his national campaign. Obama raised $5.5 million statewide, while rival Hillary Clinton collected $3.2 million in the early contest, illustrating the power of grassroots donations. Similarly, 2024 candidates Maura Sullivan and Stefany Shaheen vie for New Hampshire’s 1st District seat, with Shaheen’s $740,000 war chest and AIPAC-linked accusations echoing Obama’s donor-source scrutiny. The pattern suggests early primary fundraising and endorsement battles in New Hampshire will likely dictate national party momentum and policy focus for the 2024 election cycle.

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Story summary

Polls show Maura Sullivan leading Stefany Shaheen 33%-27% in New Hampshire’s 1st District Democratic primary.
Stefany Shaheen has raised nearly $740,000, with 39% from donors who previously gave to Sen. Jeanne Shaheen.
Shaheen aired ads accusing Sullivan of AIPAC backing; Sullivan says she receives no AIPAC money.
Shaheen earned Sen. Maggie Hassan’s endorsement while Sullivan, a Democratic vice chair, received VoteVets backing.

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