Overview
- Sen. Thom Tillis announced he will not seek re-election in 2026 after opposing the GOP reconciliation package over Medicaid cuts.
- Republicans hold a narrow 53–47 Senate majority, elevating North Carolina to a must-win battleground for both parties.
- Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell described Tillis’s exit as a major setback and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee labeled the open seat a top pickup opportunity.
- Lara Trump has signaled she is considering a run and stands poised to secure a Trump endorsement, while figures like RNC Chair Michael Whatley and Rep. Pat Harrigan are also exploring GOP bids.
- Former Gov. Roy Cooper is reported to be strongly weighing a Democratic campaign with a decision expected in the coming weeks.