1:03Chairman of the Republican National Committee Michael Whatley addresses the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) at the Gaylord National Resort Hotel And Convention Center on February 21, 2025, in Oxon Hill, Maryland.Alex Wong/Getty Images
Michael Whatley, the chair of the Republican National Committee, officially announced his candidacy for North Carolina’s next senator on Thursday afternoon.
"I understand that North Carolina desires an improved economy, increased job opportunities, safer neighborhoods, and a more robust military. I share those aspirations. Therefore, I am thrilled to declare today, with the full endorsement of President Donald Trump, that I am running to be the next senator from the great state of North Carolina," Whatley stated.
Whatley’s declaration sets the stage for what is expected to be a costly and high-profile contest to succeed retiring Republican Sen. Thom Tillis, as the state’s former Democratic governor, Roy Cooper, initiated his campaign earlier this week. The Senate’s balance of power is at stake as Democrats aim to secure Tillis’ seat.
In his Thursday address, Whatley sought to closely associate former President Joe Biden with Cooper, criticizing the latter on various fronts: his handling of Hurricane Helene, his adoption of "radical left" principles, and his perceived weakness regarding the economy. Whatley also criticized Cooper for supporting Biden following his notorious presidential debate performance, only to swiftly endorse Harris after Biden exited the race.
Whatley persisted in portraying himself as the alternative to Cooper.
Chairman of the Republican National Committee Michael Whatley speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) at the Gaylord National Resort Hotel And Convention Center on February 21, 2025, in Oxon Hill, Maryland.Alex Wong/Getty Images
"Roy Cooper has demonstrated to us precisely what his vision for America entails: higher taxes, unsafe streets, radical gender ideology, and a weaker nation. I envision a better North Carolina and a stronger America, with more money in your pocket, secure communities, common sense, and a robust country—a better state where you can purchase a home, start a family, and witness your children thrive right here in the Old North State."
In reaction to Whatley’s campaign, Cooper’s campaign manager, Jeff Allen, criticized Whatley as a lobbyist and Washington insider.
"North Carolinians do not require a lobbyist as their Senator, and voters will have a distinct choice between Whatley’s extensive career as a Beltway insider and Roy Cooper’s record of prioritizing results for North Carolina over partisanship," Allen remarked in a statement.
While Cooper and Whatley may face challengers as the primary unfolds, they are perceived as the leading candidates.
Their campaigns have received strong endorsements from their party’s key figures, with President Donald Trump encouraging Whatley to run, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Former Democratic Rep. Wiley Nickel, who had announced his candidacy in April, withdrew and endorsed Cooper after the former governor confirmed his run.
Whatley stated that Trump requires a strong ally in Congress, asserting that voters can trust he can serve as that link to the White House if elected.
"President Trump deserves a partner, and North Carolina requires a strong conservative voice in the Senate; I will be that voice," Whatley expressed.
A native of North Carolina, Whatley previously led the state’s Republican Party before being appointed by Trump to head the RNC in 2024 and collaborated with Lara Trump, the president’s daughter-in-law, who served as co-chair. Lara Trump was considered a potential candidate but ultimately decided against running.
Trump is optimistic that Whatley possesses the understanding of the state, a national presence, and the network of relationships necessary to conduct a robust campaign, a White House official informed ABC News.
Republicans also express hope that Whatley’s connections with donors will benefit him in what is anticipated to be one of the costliest races in next year’s elections.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com
