Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley, backed by top GOP leaders, launched his bid for North Carolina’s open Senate seat on Thursday. The unified support puts Whatley on the fast track to a general election matchup against former Gov.

The decision sets the stage for what is likely to be a heavyweight battle between a behind-the-scenes political insider and a former governor with a knack for winning unaffiliated voters.

Big news is expected out of Gastonia this Thursday, as Republican leader Michael Whatley is set to make a major announcement.