Maggie Tamposi Goodlander Launches Campaign for New Hampshire's 2nd Congressional District
Maggie Tamposi Goodlander, a former White House aide and the wife of national security adviser Jake Sullivan, has announced her candidacy to represent New Hampshire's 2nd Congressional District. This decision comes after six-term Rep. Annie Kuster declared that she would not seek reelection.
In a statement, Goodlander expressed her determination, saying, "I know how to get things done and deliver for New Hampshire. I'll be a workhorse for the people of the Second District and I'll never stop fighting for a freer and more just Granite State."
Prior to her role in the White House, Goodlander served as a deputy assistant attorney general, clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, and was a senior adviser for Senators John McCain and Joe Lieberman.
Goodlander also has experience as counsel to the House Judiciary Committee during the first impeachment of former President Donald Trump. "I believe deep in my bones that no politician is above the law," she emphasized in a campaign launch video.
Marriage and Advocacy
In 2015, Goodlander tied the knot with Sullivan, who was then serving as an adviser to Hillary Clinton during her time as Secretary of State. The couple later purchased a home in Portsmouth, situated within the state's 1st Congressional District. Recently, Goodlander decided to lease a place in her hometown of Nashua, located in the 2nd Congressional District.
Challenges and Advocacy
Goodlander and Sullivan faced challenges in starting a family, a topic she openly discussed in her campaign video. She shared the heartbreaking experience of a miscarriage at 20 weeks, shedding light on a critical issue resonating with voters, especially Democrats, following the recent overturn of Roe v. Wade by the Supreme Court.
"At nearly 20 weeks into my pregnancy, we received the devastating news of our loss," she revealed in the video. "I went through labor and delivered our child on my own. This personal tragedy truly underscored the impact of the Supreme Court's ruling in Dobbs for me."
"It's unjust that women in our state and nation are being deprived of essential healthcare services they require and deserve. I am committed to advocating for these rights every single day to the best of my ability," Goodlander emphasized.
Current Legislation
As per existing laws in New Hampshire, abortion is permitted up to 24 weeks, with certain exceptions in place.
Video from Goodlander's campaign:
Goodlander joins the race as the third Democratic candidate. The state's congressional Democratic primary on Sept. 10 will also feature former New Hampshire Executive Councilor Colin Van Ostern and state Senator Becky Whitley.
There are currently eight Republicans competing for the GOP nomination in a district that typically favors Democrats but is anticipated to be a close race.
Despite not providing a response to interview requests, Sullivan's campaign is emphasized as Maggie's own endeavor, separate from her husband Jake's involvement. A senior White House official informed CBS News, stating, "This campaign is Maggie's, not Jake's. He's very proud of his wife for taking this on, but it is absolutely her campaign—not his."
The official further mentioned, "Jake will adhere to the Hatch Act and all other relevant laws and policies. He has already consulted with White House ethics officials to ensure full compliance with all obligations and duties, and will continue to do so as necessary."
The Hatch Act, a regulation that prohibits federal employees from utilizing their positions for specific political purposes, will be strictly followed by Jake in his role.
