Early Voting Begins in Heated North Carolina Senate Primary

The ballot includes a January 6 rioter who once called for the televised execution of former President Barack Obama.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Early voting has begun in the highly anticipated primary election for North Carolina's U.S. Senate seat. The Democratic field is led by former Governor Roy Cooper, while the Republican frontrunner is Michael Whatley, who has the endorsement of former President Donald Trump. Other Republican candidates include Don Brown, a retired Navy officer, and Michele Morrow, a nurse and January 6 rioter who has promoted QAnon conspiracy theories.

Why it matters

The North Carolina Senate race is a crucial battleground, with Republicans hoping to hold the seat and Democrats aiming to flip it. The outcome could determine control of the Senate, making this primary election a high-stakes event for both parties.

The details

Roy Cooper, the former Democratic governor, is the anticipated pick for his party. He has raised nearly $18 million since launching his campaign last summer. On the Republican side, Michael Whatley is considered the frontrunner, with Trump's endorsement. However, he faces challenges from Don Brown, a retired Navy officer, and Michele Morrow, a nurse and January 6 rioter who has promoted QAnon conspiracy theories and called for the televised execution of former President Barack Obama.

  • Early voting in the North Carolina Senate primary began on February 12, 2026.

The players

Roy Cooper

The former Democratic governor of North Carolina, who is running for the U.S. Senate seat. He is the anticipated pick for the Democratic Party.

Michael Whatley

The frontrunner in the Republican primary, with the endorsement of former President Donald Trump. He previously served as chief of staff for Sen. Elizabeth Dole and as legal counsel for former President George W. Bush.

Don Brown

A retired Navy JAG officer who is running in the Republican primary. He has a detailed list of policies on his website, including 12-year term limits for members of Congress and the elimination of the federal income tax.

Michele Morrow

A Republican candidate who was present at the January 6 insurrection and has promoted QAnon conspiracy theories. She has called public schools "socialism centers" and "indoctrination centers," and has previously called for the televised execution of former President Barack Obama.

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What they’re saying

“I think if I do disagree with [Trump], it's going to be in private.”

— Michael Whatley (Washington Post)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This race highlights the deep divisions within the Republican Party, with a Trump-backed candidate facing challenges from more extreme candidates who have promoted conspiracy theories and violence. The outcome could have significant implications for the balance of power in the Senate.