Biography

Jeanne Shaheen, born Cynthia Jeanne Bowers on January 28, 1947, in St. Charles, Missouri, is a Democratic politician serving as the senior United States Senator from New Hampshire since 2009. She is the first woman in U.S. history to be elected as both a governor and a U.S. senator. Prior to her tenure in the Senate, Shaheen served as the 78th Governor of New Hampshire from 1997 to 2003. In March 2025, she announced that she would not seek reelection in 2026.

Education and Political Experience

• Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts from Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania
  • Master's degree from the University of Mississippi

• Political Experience:

  • New Hampshire State Senator for the 21st district
  • Governor of New Hampshire
  • Director of Harvard University's Institute of Politics
  • U.S. Senator from New Hampshire

Notable Achievements

• As Governor:

  • Maintained New Hampshire's status with the lowest tax burden in the nation during her tenure.
  • Initiated energy efficiency programs that saved New Hampshire families and businesses over $1 billion.
  • Established the Land and Community Heritage Investment Program to preserve open spaces and historic sites.

• As U.S. Senator:

  • Played a pivotal role in passing the Affordable Care Act, ensuring healthcare access for thousands of New Hampshire residents.
  • Led efforts to combat the opioid crisis, securing significant funding for treatment and prevention programs.
  • Served as the Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee starting in January 2025.

Throughout her career, Senator Shaheen has been recognized for her bipartisan approach and dedication to addressing both state and national issues.