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Trump-Backed Michael Whatley Prepares Senate Bid in North Carolina

The RNC chair will formally enter the 2026 contest to defend a pivotal open seat following Lara Trump’s withdrawal.

Lara Trump, former co-chair of the Republican National Committee, attends the signing ceremony for the “GENIUS Act” in the East Room of the White House July 18, 2025 in Washington, DC.
Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump, looks on, before President Trump signs the "Genius Act", which will develop regulatory framework for stablecoin cryptocurrencies and expand oversight of the industry, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., July 18, 2025. REUTERS/Nathan Howard/File Photo
FILE - Michael Whatley, chairman of the Republican National Committee, speaks at a campaign rally, Nov. 2, 2024, in Greensboro, NC. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)
Lara Trump during the 2025 RNC winter meeting in Washington, DC.

Overview

  • Michael Whatley has secured President Trump’s “complete and total” endorsement and will step down as RNC chair to run for Sen. Thom Tillis’s seat.
  • Lara Trump confirmed on July 24 that she will not pursue the Senate bid and plans to remain at Fox News while backing the GOP nominee.
  • Sources say Whatley’s formal campaign launch is expected within the next week to ten days.
  • Former Governor Roy Cooper is poised to announce his Democratic candidacy soon, setting up a high-profile contest in a key battleground state.
  • Republicans hold a 53-47 Senate majority and the North Carolina race is regarded as one of the most competitive and expensive of the midterms.