Anthony DiLorenzo Wins GOP Nomination for New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District
Published Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Author: William Skipworth, NH Bulletin
Portsmouth car dealer Anthony DiLorenzo emerged victorious in the GOP primary for New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District on September 8, 2026. The Associated Press announced his win at 8 p.m., positioning him to replace Rep. Chris Pappas, who vacated the seat to pursue a Senate run. If successful in the upcoming election, DiLorenzo would be the first Republican from New Hampshire to serve in Congress in over ten years.
At the time of the race’s call, the Democratic nominee was not yet determined. DiLorenzo, at 62 years old, captured approximately 51% of the vote, totaling 13,110 votes, defeating a competitive GOP field that included Hollie Noveletsky, who secured 27% (7,485 votes) and state Rep. Brian Cole with 14.1% (3,978 votes).
Endorsed by former President Donald Trump, DiLorenzo aimed to balance conservative party values with centrist policies, navigating criticism labeling him as insufficiently conservative.
As an owner of over a dozen car dealerships, he promotes himself as a pragmatic businessman ready to tackle congressional challenges with his business expertise.
Historically, the district’s representation has fluctuated; before Pappas’s win in 2018, it had shifted between Democrat Carol Shea Porter and Republican Frank Guinta four times. Pappas’s success in three consecutive elections has raised questions about voter sentiments regarding the GOP’s viability in the district.
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