Overview

• President Trump declared on Air Force One that Lara Trump is his “first choice” to succeed Sen. Thom Tillis in the 2026 Senate election
• Local outlet WCNC reports she must reestablish North Carolina residency and satisfy a 90-day Republican Party affiliation deadline by September to qualify
• Potential GOP contenders, including RNC Chair Michael Whatley, have paused their own campaigns pending her formal decision
• Lara Trump confirmed she is “truly” considering a run after fielding calls from White House officials urging her to enter the race
• North Carolina Democrats view the open seat as their leading pickup opportunity on the 2026 Senate map