Trump-backed RNC Chair Michael Whatley jumps into North Carolina's Senate race as Lara Trump declines to run, creating a battle for one of 2026's competitive seats.

Lara Trump, President Donald Trump’s daughter-in-law, had been rumored as a possible Republican candidate for North Carolina’s open Senate seat.

Washington — Republican National Committee chairman Michael Whatley is preparing to enter the race for the open U.S. Senate seat in North Carolina, one of the top battleground contests of the 2026 cycle, according to three sources familiar with his plans.

A North Carolina native, Whatley led the state's GOP before he was selected by President Trump to lead the RNC in 2024.

His entry will pave the way for a marquee contest in 2026, with former Gov. Roy Cooper planning to seek the Democratic nomination.

North Carolina’s 2026 Senate race is coming into focus as former Gov. Roy Cooper prepares to run and Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley, backed by President Donald Trump and GOP leadership,

Former Governor Roy Cooper has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate in North Carolina, joining Trump-backed RNC Chair Michael Whatley in what is expected to be a costly campaign.