Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH) discussed his U.S. Senate campaign and economic platform in an interview on "Face the Nation" on October 11, 2026. Pappas, who currently represents New Hampshire's 1st district in the House, is running against former U.S. Senator John Sununu in a race CBS News projects as "lean Democrat."
The interview focused on the final 23 days of the midterm campaign in a state where early voting is generally unavailable. Pappas addressed his opponent's record and his own legislative priorities, which include addressing high energy and housing costs, while distancing himself from some members of his party who have called for the total disbandment of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Pappas stated that he aims to win over independent and Republican voters by focusing on affordability. He criticized the current administration for rising prices, citing costs of $1,000 to fill a home heating oil tank and $6.50 per gallon for diesel. He also supported restoring Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium subsidies and backstopping Medicaid cuts.
For the average household, the economic shifts described involve significant changes to monthly bills. Pappas noted that residents are currently facing diesel prices of $6.50 per gallon and four-figure costs for heating oil, alongside rising housing expenses. His proposed "affordability agenda," which he said would start in January if he is elected, would seek to use federal investment to increase the affordable housing stock and lower energy prices by working to end the ongoing war in Iran.
Additionally, Pappas's position on immigration reform signals a specific legislative path for ICE. Rather than disbanding the agency, he sponsored a bill to redirect $75 billion in ICE funding to local law enforcement. This plan would require ICE officers to wear body cameras, be identified, and undergo de-escalation training. The final decision on these policies rests with the voters on Election Day, November 3, 2026, as New Hampshire prepares for its election-day voting process.