Key Takeaways:
- Longtime Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) will not run for reelection in 2024.
- She expressed confidence that Democrats can hold her Senate seat.
- Shaheen sharply criticized potential Republican candidates Chris Sununu and Scott Brown.
- She called out Trump and Musk for their policies and leadership styles.
Shaheen Steps Down, But Doesn’t Hold Back
Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, a Democrat from New Hampshire, announced Wednesday that she won’t run for reelection in 2024. Her decision marks the end of a long political career, including three terms in the Senate, time as governor, and service as a state senator.
Shaheen, who is 78, told reporters she’s confident Democrats can keep her seat in next year’s elections. She believes the party is strong enough and that the country is moving in a direction that favors Democrats. However, she also made it clear she’s not a fan of some Republicans who might try to take her place.
Shaheen Takes Aim at GOP Candidates
When asked about possible Republican candidates, Shaheen didn’t hold back.
On Scott Brown: Shaheen criticized Scott Brown, a former senator from Massachusetts, saying he doesn’t have strong ties to New Hampshire. She jokingly pointed out that Brown colors his hair, while she doesn’t. She also mentioned that Brown hasn’t done much in the state except “pretend” to support local candidates.
Shaheen even took a shot at Brown’s career, saying his biggest accomplishment is coaching a women’s basketball team in Massachusetts.
On Chris Sununu: Shaheen also had harsh words for Chris Sununu, a former governor of New Hampshire. She accused Sununu of supporting Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s policies, which she believes won’t resonate well with voters in the state.
“Sununu’s alignment with the Trump-Musk agenda won’t play well in New Hampshire,” she said.
Shaheen Blasts Trump and Musk
Shaheen saved some of her strongest criticism for Trump and Musk. She called out their leadership styles and policies, especially their treatment of federal employees.
“They’re telling public servants their work isn’t valued,” she said. “That’s one of the most disturbing things about what they’re doing.”
Shaheen also expressed concern about the direction of the country under Trump and Musk’s influence. She believes their actions will hurt the nation and alienate voters.
Why Is Shaheen Retiring?
While Shaheen is leaving politics, she seems confident about the Democratic Party’s future. She believes the country is trending in a direction that favors Democrats, especially on issues like healthcare, education, and the economy.
Shaheen’s decision is a blow to Senate Democrats, as she’s been a reliable vote and a strong fundraiser. However, she believes the party is in good shape to hold onto her seat.
What Comes Next?
Shaheen’s retirement sets up a competitive race in New Hampshire. Republicans are likely to target the seat, but Shaheen thinks Democrats have the edge.
As for Shaheen, she’s stepping away from politics but not from the spotlight. Her candid remarks about her critics and opponents show she’s still a force to be reckoned with, even as she leaves office.
In the end, Shaheen’s exit interview was anything but quiet. She left no doubt about how she feels about her potential successors and the state of politics today.