Maggie Hassan, American politician, 81st Governor and junior senator of New Hampshire

Margaret Coldwell Hassan, born Margaret Wood on February 27, 1958, in Boston, Massachusetts, is a prominent American politician and attorney currently serving as the junior United States Senator from New Hampshire. A distinguished Democrat, Hassan's career is marked by a series of significant achievements, including holding the Granite State's top executive office as its 81st governor before making her mark on the national stage in the U.S. Senate.

Early Life, Education, and Legal Career

Hassan's journey began in Boston, Massachusetts, where she spent her formative years. Her academic path led her to Brown University, a prestigious Ivy League institution, where she honed her analytical skills and developed a broad understanding of the world. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued her legal aspirations at Northeastern University School of Law, graduating in 1985. Her early professional life saw her gaining valuable experience in the legal field, first at the respected law firm Palmer & Dodge, and later contributing her expertise as an associate general counsel for Brigham and Women’s Hospital. This foundational period in law provided her with a deep appreciation for justice and public service, setting the stage for her eventual pivot into politics.

Entry into New Hampshire Politics: The State Senate

The call to public service eventually drew Margaret Coldwell Hassan directly into the political arena, beginning with her first bid for the New Hampshire State Senate in 2002. Although she faced an initial defeat against incumbent Russell Prescott, her resolve was unwavering. Demonstrating persistence and a growing connection with the electorate, she ran against Prescott again in 2004, successfully securing a victory. This win marked the beginning of her tenure representing New Hampshire's 23rd district, a role she held from January 2005 to December 2010 across three two-year terms. Her dedication and leadership qualities quickly became evident, leading to her election as the majority leader in 2008. However, her time in the State Senate concluded after a rematch with Prescott in 2010, which she narrowly lost, highlighting the competitive nature of New Hampshire politics.

From State Senator to Governor of New Hampshire

Undeterred by her State Senate loss, Margaret Hassan set her sights on a new challenge, announcing her candidacy for Governor of New Hampshire in October 2011. Her campaign resonated with voters, and she successfully navigated a competitive Democratic primary, defeating former state senator Jacalyn Cilley. In the general election, she faced Republican nominee, attorney Ovide M. Lamontagne. Hassan’s compelling vision and effective campaigning led her to a decisive victory, securing 55% of the vote. This triumph was historic, making her only the second woman to ever serve as New Hampshire's governor. Her leadership was recognized nationally, leading to her election as vice chair of the Democratic Governors Association and her service as a superdelegate at the Democratic National Convention. She was reelected to her gubernatorial post in 2014, solidifying her mandate and demonstrating widespread public trust in the Granite State.

Ascension to the U.S. Senate: A Historic Win

In 2016, while still serving as Governor, Hassan decided to pursue a federal role, challenging Republican incumbent Kelly Ayotte for a seat in the U.S. Senate. This highly anticipated race was one of the most closely watched contests in the nation, reflecting New Hampshire's crucial swing-state status. In a testament to her electoral strength and appeal, Hassan narrowly defeated Ayotte by an incredibly slim margin—approximately one thousand votes, which translated to just about 0.1% of the total ballots cast. This victory not only sent her to Washington but also placed her alongside fellow New Hampshire Democrat Jeanne Shaheen, who is also a former governor. The unique circumstances of their careers meant that Hassan and Shaheen etched their names in American history as the only two women to have been elected both governor and U.S. senator, remarkably, both in the same state. This achievement underscores the Granite State's progressive political landscape and its tradition of electing trailblazing women to prominent roles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Senator Margaret Coldwell Hassan

Who is Margaret Coldwell Hassan?
Margaret Coldwell Hassan is an American politician and attorney currently serving as the junior United States Senator for New Hampshire. She previously held the office of the 81st Governor of New Hampshire.
When was Senator Hassan born?
She was born on February 27, 1958.
What political offices has Margaret Hassan held?
Her political career includes serving as a New Hampshire State Senator (2005-2010), Governor of New Hampshire (2013-2017), and she has been a United States Senator since her election in 2016.
What is unique about her U.S. Senate career alongside Jeanne Shaheen?
Margaret Hassan, along with fellow New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen, holds the distinct honor of being one of only two women in American history to have served as both governor and U.S. senator from the same state.
Which law school did Senator Hassan attend?
She is a graduate of Northeastern University School of Law.
Was Margaret Hassan New Hampshire's first female Governor?
No, she was the state's second female governor, winning her first gubernatorial term in 2012.