Former Republican National Committee chairman Michael Whatley wins the Republican Senate primary in North Carolina after entering the race following Sen. Thom Tillis’ decision not to seek reelection.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley has secured the Republican nomination for the United States Senate in North Carolina, positioning himself as the party’s candidate in a closely watched race to succeed retiring Sen. Thom Tillis.
Whatley won the Republican primary Tuesday night after launching his campaign last year following Tillis’ announcement that he would not seek another term in the Senate. His victory places him on the ballot in November as Republicans seek to retain control of the seat.
Whatley’s campaign received the backing of President Donald Trump, whose endorsement elevated the race’s national profile and drew attention from conservative activists across the state.
The Republican primary outcome follows months of political friction between Tillis and Trump, tensions that intensified before the senator decided to step aside rather than pursue reelection.
With the Republican nomination secured, Whatley now advances to the general election, where he is expected to face former North Carolina Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. Cooper also won his party’s primary and is viewed by Democratic strategists as a strong contender in the statewide contest.
The race is expected to become one of the most closely watched Senate contests of the 2026 election cycle, as both parties view the seat as strategically important for maintaining or shifting the balance of power in the chamber.
Following the primary results, Trump shared a graphic on Truth Social announcing Whatley’s victory and highlighting his endorsement.
“Republican Nominee for U.S. Senator from North Carolina Michael Whatley Wins! Endorsed by President Trump!” the message read.
Trump also circulated additional graphics recognizing other candidates he endorsed who secured primary victories in their respective races.
The North Carolina Senate seat opened after Tillis confirmed he would not pursue reelection amid growing disagreements with Trump-aligned activists within the Republican Party.
Whatley’s nomination now sets the stage for a high-profile general election contest between the Republican nominee and Cooper, with control of the seat to be decided by North Carolina voters in November.
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