Whatley Within Striking Distance of Defeating Roy Cooper in North Carolina
Summary
Republican Michael Whatley is close behind Democrat Roy Cooper in the race for North Carolina's open U.S. Senate seat. A recent poll shows Cooper leading by a small margin, making the race competitive as the 2026 midterm elections approach.Key Facts
- The Senate seat is open because Republican Senator Thom Tillis is not running again.
- Roy Cooper was North Carolina’s governor from 2017 to 2024 and is running to return to elected office.
- Michael Whatley is a former chairman of the Republican National Committee and the North Carolina Republican Party.
- A new poll shows Cooper leading Whatley 50% to 45% among likely voters, but the margin is within the poll's error range.
- The Cook Political Report rates the race as "Lean Democrat," meaning Cooper has a slight advantage.
- The Senate currently has a Republican majority of 53-45, excluding two independents who side with Democrats.
- Midterm elections often reflect public approval of the sitting president, and President Trump has endorsed Whatley.
- Political experts say the race is close and changes in voter opinion could affect the outcome.
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