11 publishers · first seen Tue, 03 Nov 2026 03:03 UTC · updated Wed, 04 Nov 2026 13:30 UTC
Democrat Chris Pappas has won the US Senate race in New Hampshire, becoming the first openly gay man elected to the chamber. Pappas defeated Republican John E. Sununu, securing a significant victory for LGBTQ+ representation. His win preserves the Democratic control of the seat previously held by retiring Senator Jeanne Shaheen. Pappas, a 46-year-old Harvard graduate, has a record of advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, including support for the Equality Act and efforts to restore benefits to LGBTQ+ veterans. However, his support for the 2024 defence authorisation bill, which included a provision restricting Tricare coverage of gender-affirming care for transgender minors, drew criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates. Pappas' victory marks a historic moment for LGBTQ+ political representation in the US Senate, reflecting a growing visibility and inclusion within American political institutions.
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