Michael Whatley expected to launch US Senate campaign

Michael Whatley, chairman of the Republican National Committee and a key figure in North Carolina GOP politics, is reportedly preparing to enter the 2026 US Senate race. According to a report from Politico, Whatley will formally announce his candidacy within the next 10 days, setting the stage for a nationally watched contest to succeed outgoing Sen. Thom Tillis.

Whatley’s anticipated run signals a major development in North Carolina’s political landscape. A former chair of the North Carolina Republican Party, Whatley has been a close ally of President Donald Trump and has played a central role in shaping the GOP’s election integrity messaging. His rise to RNC chair in 2024 solidified his position as a national conservative leader with deep state-level roots.

Only 466 days until Election Day 2026! Everyone in #NCPOL ready to have some fun?! #NCSEN https://t.co/VwY1nfZ8xi

— Jonathan Felts (@JonathanFelts) July 24, 2025

During his time as NCGOP chair from 2019 to 2023, Whatley helped Republicans expand their legislative majorities. Supporters say he positioned the party for long-term success in statewide elections. Trump endorsed Whatley to lead the Republican National Committee alongside Trump’s daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, who now serves as RNC co-chair. Trump praised Whatley for his unwavering loyalty, organizational strength, and focus on election integrity, qualities the former president has prioritized as he seeks to reshape the GOP heading into 2026.

the republican field

Trump will likely play a significant role in a Whatley US Senate campaign in North Carolina. He called for a challenger to Tillis, who has drawn criticism from the party’s conservative base for his votes on immigration, Trump appointments, and the recent One Big Beautiful Bill. Tillis announced in June that he will not seek re-election.

Whatley’s entry could deter other Republican hopefuls, particularly if Trump offers an early endorsement. Still, conservative challengers may emerge depending on how the primary unfolds. So far, Andy Nilsson of the Triad has already declared his candidacy for the primary, sporting a Trump hat. In addition, 2024 congressional candidate Don Brown had declared plans to challenge Tillis in the GOP primary.  The official filing period opens in December.

the democratic field

On the Democratic side, former Gov. Roy Cooper is believed to be preparing a Senate bid of his own. Multiple sources suggest an announcement from Cooper could come as early as next week. Cooper, who left office in January with strong approval ratings, is viewed as his party’s preferred candidate capable of strong fundraising and energizing Democratic turnout.

Former congressman Wiley Nickel announced his run for the Senate seat when it appeared Tillis would remain in the race. Other names that have been floated for the Democratic nomination include former congressional candidate Dan McCready and current Lt. Gov. Rachel Hunt.

If both Whatley and Cooper enter the race, it would pit two sharply contrasting visions for North Carolina against each other in a high-stakes showdown with national implications.

Carolina Journal will continue to follow developments in the race as official announcements unfold.

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