New Congressional Candidate in New Hampshire
A prominent Republican activist, who strongly supported President Donald Trump’s previous campaign, is looking to shift the party’s recent losses in crucial congressional swing districts. Elizabeth Girard, who co-chaired Trump’s 2024 campaign in New Hampshire, has officially kicked off her campaign for the state’s open 1st Congressional District, a seat that Republicans haven’t claimed in over ten years.
In a statement and video first shared on Fox News Digital, she expressed, “I will work with President Trump and my colleagues to deliver tangible results and ensure the future of this state remains bright for generations to come.”
Insights on the Upcoming Election
The 1st District, stretching from Manchester to Portsmouth and up to the White Mountains, has become a key focus for Republicans as they aim to protect and possibly expand their slim majority in the House during the midterm elections next year.
Historically, this district has been a competitive battleground; Democrats have claimed victory in the last five elections, with Rep. Chris Pappas winning the last four. However, with Pappas now running for the Senate to replace retiring Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, Republicans see a chance to regain the seat.
In her announcement, Girard promised to “bring common-sense, results-oriented leadership to Washington and amplify New Hampshire’s voice.” She noted priorities such as lowering living costs and healthcare expenses, supporting small businesses, and caring for veterans and seniors.
Girard enters a crowded Republican primary that also includes local business figures and former party officials. Competitors include auto dealer and real estate developer Anthony DiLorenzo, former state party vice chair Holly Noveletzky, state Rep. Brian Cole, and Melissa Bailey, vice chair of the Bedford Republican Committee.
On the Democratic side, seven candidates are vying for their party’s nomination, featuring notable figures like Stephanie Shaheen, daughter of Senator Jeanne Shaheen, and Maura Sullivan, vice chair of the New Hampshire Democratic Party.
Girard, a University of New Hampshire graduate and former president of the New Hampshire Federation of Republican Women (NHFRW), previously ran unsuccessfully for a position with the Republican National Committee. She publicly endorsed Trump during a rally in December 2023, which was a departure from the NHFRW’s policy of neutrality in primaries. Following her endorsement, she stepped down from her leadership role and will now serve as Trump’s co-chair in New Hampshire.
