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.

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.

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.

Democrats scored a major victory for their party’s hopes of pulling off one of few opportunities to flip a Senate seat from Republican control in the upcoming m