Overview

• Senator Thom Tillis announced on June 29 that he will not seek reelection, opting to spend more time with his wife Susan, their two children and three grandchildren.
• His decision followed his June 28 vote against advancing Trump's budget reconciliation bill, prompting the president to threaten a primary challenge.
• Republican strategists have begun vetting Rep. Richard Hudson, former RNC co-chair Lara Trump and party chair Michael Whatley as potential successors for the now-open seat.
• Democrats are awaiting a formal campaign launch from former governor Roy Cooper while Rep. Wiley Nickel continues as the declared contender.
• Cook Political Report rates the race as leaning Republican, making it a prime Democratic target in this key battleground state.