Trump Campaigns for Michael Whatley in Crucial 2026 North Carolina Senate Race
Former President Donald Trump is set to campaign in North Carolina to support Michael Whatley, the former RNC chair and leading GOP candidate, in the 2026 North Carolina Senate race. Whatley aims to replace retiring Senator Thom Tillis and help preserve the Republican Senate majority, which currently stands at 53-47.
The Trump-backed campaign frames the 2026 race as a referendum on Trump and his political agenda. Whatley expressed confidence that Trump's popularity in North Carolina will bolster the campaign's momentum. The effort includes plans for Whatley to campaign across all 100 counties in North Carolina while maintaining a close alignment with Trump to boost turnout.
Economic issues such as affordability and inflation are central to the campaign's focus. Democrats highlight the state of the economy, while Republicans argue that their policies will reduce prices and housing costs.
Concerns remain about voter turnout, particularly among low-propensity MAGA voters who may be less likely to vote if Trump is not on the ballot. Therefore, Trump's presence on the campaign trail is viewed as crucial to ensuring a strong Republican turnout in North Carolina for 2026.
Whatley has criticized his Democratic challenger, former Governor Roy Cooper, on issues including crime, illegal immigration, and women's sports. Cooper's campaign responds by emphasizing his efforts to lower healthcare costs and keep communities safe.
