WASHINGTON: A historic milestone has been achieved in American politics as Democratic candidate Chris Pappas has won a US Senate seat representing New Hampshire, becoming the first openly gay man elected to the US Senate.
The 46-year-old Greek-American politician defeated Republican candidate John E. Sununu in the midterm elections held on November 3, securing 56.20% of the vote.
Taking to social media platform X on November 4, Pappas described his victory as a win for everyone. He also highlighted his 579-day campaign, during which he travelled across New Hampshire and engaged directly with voters in communities throughout the state.
Thank you, New Hampshire. https://t.co/AIIfpYj2IS
— Chris Pappas (@ChrisPappasNH) November 4, 2026
Meanwhile, the midterm elections dealt a significant setback to President Donald Trump’s Republican Party, as Democrats secured control of both chambers of Congress. Rising living costs and public concerns over the war involving Iran were among the issues shaping the electoral outcome.
From Greek Roots to American Politics
Born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, Pappas comes from a Greek-American family with ancestral roots in the village of Livadi in the Thessaly region of Greece. His great-grandfather immigrated to the United States in the early 20th century, where the family established a small business.
Pappas attended Manchester Central High School before enrolling at Harvard College in 1998. After completing his education, he also worked at his family’s restaurant business.
Before entering national politics, he served on the New Hampshire Executive Council. In 2018, he was elected to the US House of Representatives, becoming the first openly gay person from New Hampshire to serve in Congress. He has represented the state as a Democratic member of the House since 2019.
During his time in Congress, Pappas has focused on tax relief for working and middle-income families, support for small businesses, water protection and efforts to reduce prescription drug costs.
Pappas is married to his husband, Vann. His election to the US Senate marks a significant milestone in American political representation.
