Overview
- Former Rep. Wiley Nickel officially announced his campaign to unseat Republican Sen. Thom Tillis in the 2026 North Carolina Senate race.
- Nickel frames his campaign around opposing Trump’s policies and accuses Tillis of being a consistent supporter of Trump’s agenda.
- He opted not to seek reelection to the House in 2024 after redistricting made his district more favorable to Republicans.
- Nickel’s Senate bid makes him the first major Democratic contender in a race rated 'lean Republican' by the Cook Political Report.
- The Democratic primary could become competitive if former Gov. Roy Cooper, a popular figure in the state, decides to enter the race.