Cooper Touts Cost-of-Living Plan in Wilmington Campaign Stop

Democratic Senate candidate highlights proposals to ease financial pressures on North Carolina families.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:30pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A serene, photorealistic painting depicting a lone campaign sign or podium set against a backdrop of warm, golden sunlight and deep, dramatic shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the weight of political issues.As the cost of living crisis looms large in North Carolina, a former governor seeks to position himself as the Senate candidate best equipped to provide relief for struggling families.Wilmington Today

Former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, the state's Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, visited Wilmington on Thursday, April 16 as part of his "Make Stuff Cost Less" campaign tour. Cooper's platform focuses on proposals aimed at lowering the cost of living for North Carolina families.

Why it matters

As the cost of housing, groceries, and other essentials continues to rise, the issue of affordability has become a key focus for many voters in North Carolina's upcoming Senate race. Cooper's visit to Wilmington, a city grappling with high living costs, highlights his efforts to position himself as the candidate best equipped to address these economic challenges.

The details

During his Wilmington stop, Cooper outlined several policy ideas he says would help reduce financial burdens on North Carolina residents, including expanding tax credits, investing in affordable housing, and capping the cost of prescription drugs. The candidate framed these proposals as crucial for supporting working families and retirees struggling with inflationary pressures.

  • Cooper visited Wilmington on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • The "Make Stuff Cost Less" tour is part of Cooper's broader campaign for the 2026 U.S. Senate election in North Carolina.

The players

Roy Cooper

The former governor of North Carolina who is currently running as the state's Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“North Carolina families are feeling the squeeze of rising costs, and they need a Senator who will fight to make their lives more affordable.”

— Roy Cooper, Democratic U.S. Senate Candidate

What’s next

Cooper's "Make Stuff Cost Less" tour will continue across North Carolina in the lead-up to the 2026 Senate election.

The takeaway

With the cost of living emerging as a top concern for many North Carolina voters, Cooper's campaign is seeking to position him as the candidate best equipped to address these economic challenges and provide relief for struggling families.