Overview
- Sen. Thom Tillis announced he will not seek reelection in 2026 after opposing President Trump’s “Big Beautiful” spending bill over Medicaid changes.
- Cook Political Report shifted North Carolina’s race from leaning Republican to a toss-up and designated it the Democrats’ top pickup chance.
- With 53 Republicans, 45 Democrats and two independents in the Senate, control of the chamber may turn on the Tar Heel State’s 2026 contest.
- Democrat Wiley Nickel has entered the primary and former Gov. Roy Cooper is weighing a campaign for the open seat.
- Republican contenders under discussion include Lara Trump and RNC chair Michael Whatley as the party grapples with internal divisions.