Trump Boosts Whatley in North Carolina Senate Race as Primaries Set Key Fall Matchups

RALEIGH, NC – The stage is set for a pivotal U.S. Senate race in North Carolina, as Democrat Roy Cooper and Republican Michael Whatley emerged victorious in their respective primary elections on Tuesday, according to the Associated Press. The matchup will pit the former North Carolina governor against the former Republican National Committee chairman in a contest expected to be a key battleground in the fight for control of the Senate.

A Crucial Senate Seat

The North Carolina Senate seat, currently held by retiring Republican Senator Thom Tillis, is considered one of the most competitive in the nation. A Democratic victory in the state is viewed as nearly essential for the party to potentially regain control of the Senate.

Trump’s Endorsement and Rallying Cry

Former President Donald Trump has heavily backed Whatley, publicly endorsing him and actively campaigning on his behalf. During a visit to Fort Bragg on February 13, 2026, Trump brought Whatley onstage, urging military personnel to support his candidacy. Trump stated that Whatley was the only candidate he considered for the role, highlighting his past leadership within the state Republican party. Trump emphasized the importance of voting for Whatley, telling troops that doing so would ensure they are “taken care of.”

Concerns Over Campaigning at Fort Bragg

However, Trump’s appearance at Fort Bragg to promote Whatley has drawn criticism. The North Carolina Democratic Party has accused Whatley of “disrespecting” the military and violating Department of Defense guidelines prohibiting partisan campaigning on military installations. The Department of Defense has strict rules regarding campaigning on military installations, and Whatley’s appearance alongside Trump is alleged to have breached those regulations.

Other Key Races in North Carolina

Beyond the Senate race, several key House primaries also concluded on Tuesday, shaping the landscape for the November general election.

• North Carolina’s 4th District: Incumbent Rep. Valerie Foushee faced a challenge from Durham County commissioner Nida Allam, representing a contest to gauge the direction of the Democratic Party.
• North Carolina’s 11th District: Farmer Jamie Ager secured the Democratic nomination, running in a traditionally Republican-leaning district. Republican incumbent Rep. Chuck Edwards won his party’s nomination after facing a primary challenge from veteran Adam Smith, who focused on the federal response to Hurricane Helene.
• North Carolina’s 1st District: Democratic Rep. Don Davis will face Laurie Buckhout, who won the Republican nomination in a district redrawn to favor Republican voters.

Looking Ahead

As control of Congress hangs in the balance, North Carolina’s elections will be closely watched. The state’s history of split-ticket voting, combined with the competitive Senate race and key House battles, positions it as a crucial battleground in the 2026 midterm elections. The outcome will likely play a significant role in determining the balance of power in Washington.