Former NC Governor Launches 'Make Stuff Cost Less' Senate Campaign Tour

Roy Cooper, a Democrat, is running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican Thom Tillis.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:04am

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a lone campaign sign or podium set against a backdrop of warm, golden sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of civic contemplation.As the cost of living remains a top concern for North Carolina voters, the former governor's campaign tour aims to position him as an independent voice focused on affordability.Wilmington Today

Former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, a Democrat, is running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican Thom Tillis, who is not seeking re-election. As part of his campaign, Cooper is touring the state on a 'Make Stuff Cost Less' tour, with a stop in Wilmington on Wednesday.

Why it matters

With the Senate seat up for grabs, Cooper's campaign focused on affordability and cost-of-living issues could resonate with North Carolina voters who are feeling the pinch of inflation and rising prices.

The details

During his Wilmington stop, Cooper said he wants to be an 'independent voice' for North Carolina, focused on creating better-paying jobs, affordable healthcare, and protecting programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. He is running against Republican Michael Whatley, the former chair of the Republican National Committee.

  • Cooper campaigned in Wilmington on Wednesday, April 17, 2026.
  • Thom Tillis, the current U.S. Senator, is not seeking re-election.

The players

Roy Cooper

A Democrat and former Governor of North Carolina who is running for the U.S. Senate seat.

Thom Tillis

The current Republican U.S. Senator from North Carolina who is not seeking re-election.

Michael Whatley

The Republican candidate running against Cooper for the U.S. Senate seat, and the former chair of the Republican National Committee.

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What they’re saying

“I'm ready to be an independent voice for North Carolina, focused on better-paying jobs, affordable health care, protecting Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, and just making stuff cost less.”

— Roy Cooper, Democratic Candidate for U.S. Senate

What’s next

The election for the U.S. Senate seat will be held in November 2026.

The takeaway

With inflation and the cost of living being top concerns for many North Carolina voters, Cooper's campaign focused on affordability and protecting social programs could resonate and give him a path to victory in the Senate race.