Senate race · 2026

North Carolina Senate Race

This election will determine who will succeed Republican U.S. Senator Thom Tillis, who is not seeking re-election, making this an open seat. The outcome is expected to be highly competitive and could decide which party controls the U.S. Senate.

All 2026 races

2 candidates · what each one campaigns on

Roy Cooper

Democratic

Roy Cooper, 68, is a former two-term Governor of North Carolina.

Campaign platform

Lower Everyday Costs
Cooper launched a 'Make Stuff Cost Less' tour, focusing on economic plans to bring relief from rising costs in North Carolina.
EconomySource
Oppose Tariffs
Cooper advocates for an end to tariffs, stating they drive up costs for consumers and farmers.
EconomySource
Reduce Healthcare Costs
Cooper proposes reversing cuts to Medicaid, providing tax credits for federal marketplace health insurance, and holding insurance companies accountable.
HealthSource
Regulate Corporate Mergers
Cooper aims to crack down on unfair corporate mergers to reduce market power and prevent price increases, especially in grocery stores.
EconomySource
Energy & Utility Costs
Cooper's plan includes making data centers pay the full cost of the power they use to address energy and utility expenses.
EconomySource

Campaign site Ballotpedia profile

Michael Whatley

Republican

Michael Whatley, 57, is the former Republican National Committee Chairman.

Campaign platform

Tax Relief for Families
Whatley supports tax relief for working families to strengthen the economy and increase household budgets.
EconomySource
Job Creation
Whatley stated his focus is on job creation as part of his economic platform.
EconomySource
Safe Neighborhoods
Whatley prioritizes safe neighborhoods for children as a key area of focus.
JusticeSource
Support for Military
Whatley emphasized his support for the military as a campaign focus.
DefenseSource
Affordable Housing Policies
Whatley has touted the Trump administration's affordable housing policies.
HousingSource

Campaign site Ballotpedia profile

Platform items are drawn from candidates’ own campaign materials and public reporting, summarised neutrally. They are what a candidate says they will do — not a judgement about whether they will do it. Once a candidate is serving in Congress, their record moves to the The Informed Ballot profiles.