Michael Whatley Wins North Carolina GOP Senate Primary

Whatley thanks Trump for 'unwavering support' after victory

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Former RNC chair Michael Whatley has won the North Carolina Republican Senate primary, defeating six other GOP candidates. During his victory speech, Whatley praised President Trump and said he was proud to stand alongside the president in putting America first.

Why it matters

North Carolina represents one of the few opportunities for Democrats to flip a Republican-held Senate seat in the 2026 election, making Whatley's victory an important development in the national political landscape.

The details

Whatley has applied an 'America First' approach to his campaign, running on issues like secure borders, a strong economy, and putting North Carolina first. After his win, Trump posted a graphic on Truth Social showing himself alongside Whatley with the text: 'Michael Whatley wins! Endorsed by President Trump.'

  • The race was called in Whatley's favor around 8:50 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3.

The players

Michael Whatley

Former RNC chair who won the North Carolina Republican Senate primary.

Donald Trump

Former U.S. President who endorsed Whatley and provided 'unwavering support' in the race.

Thom Tillis

Republican Senator from North Carolina who is not seeking re-election, creating the open seat that Whatley won.

Roy Cooper

Former two-term Democratic Governor of North Carolina who dominated the state's six-person Democratic primary.

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What they’re saying

“I want to thank President Donald J. Trump for his strong and unwavering support in this race. His leadership has changed our country. I am proud to stand with him in the fight to secure our border, to strengthen our economy, and put America first.”

— Michael Whatley (wbtv.com)

What’s next

The November winner will replace Republican Sen. Thom Tillis, who is not seeking reelection.

The takeaway

Whatley's victory in the North Carolina GOP Senate primary, with the endorsement and support of former President Trump, represents a significant development in the national political landscape as Democrats look to flip a Republican-held seat in a key swing state.