Stefany Shaheen maintains a strong lead in the September 8, 2026 Democratic primary for New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District, driven by high name recognition as the daughter of longtime U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, prior local officeholding in Portsmouth, consistent polling advantages, in-state fundraising strength exceeding $400,000 in recent quarters, and recent endorsements from figures including Senator Mark Kelly and gun violence prevention groups. Maura Sullivan, a Marine veteran and former state party official who previously ran in 2018, holds the clearest second position through targeted grassroots efforts focused on affordability but trails significantly in resources and visibility. State Representative Heath Howard and Carleigh Beriont register minimal support amid a crowded field of nine candidates and limited name identification. The short campaign timeline before primary ballots limits opportunities for major shifts in the race.