RALEIGH, NC – July 28, 2025 — Former Democratic Governor Roy Cooper has officially entered the 2026 U.S. Senate race in North Carolina, setting up what is expected to be one of the most closely watched political contests in the nation.
Cooper made the announcement through a campaign video shared across social media, stating his mission to fight for the middle class, safeguard healthcare, and defend key social programs like Social Security and veterans’ benefits. With two successful terms as governor and a reputation for bipartisanship, Cooper enters the race as a strong Democratic contender.
“I’m running for the U.S. Senate because North Carolina needs someone who will fight for working families—not the wealthy special interests,” Cooper said in his launch video. “It’s time for a Senator who puts people over politics.”
🔵 A Battle for a Swing-State Seat
The seat Cooper is targeting is currently held by retiring Republican Senator Thom Tillis, creating a rare open-seat opportunity in a state known for razor-thin election margins. Democrats view this seat as a critical pickup in their effort to maintain or expand control of the Senate in 2026.
Cooper is expected to face Michael Whatley, the current Chair of the Republican National Committee and a close ally of former President Donald Trump. Whatley is already gearing up his campaign, signaling a likely clash between two high-profile figures in national politics.
🔑 Campaign Priorities
In his announcement, Cooper outlined a platform that includes:
- Lowering prescription drug costs
- Strengthening public education
- Defending voting rights
- Protecting reproductive freedom
- Addressing climate change with clean energy investment
He also took aim at Washington gridlock, calling out the GOP-led House and Senate for “failing the American people by playing political games while families struggle.”
🔍 Why This Race Matters
Political analysts are already calling this race one of the top Senate races to watch in 2026. North Carolina has long been considered a battleground state, and Cooper’s high name recognition, fundraising power, and centrist appeal could make this one of the most expensive and closely contested elections in the country.
“Roy Cooper’s entry reshapes the Senate map overnight,” said one Democratic strategist. “This gives Democrats a strong chance to flip a seat in a year where every race will count.”
📊 What’s Next?
Cooper will begin campaigning statewide this fall, focusing on rural outreach, suburban mobilization, and engaging young voters. His campaign is expected to draw national attention and support from prominent Democratic figures and organizations.
Meanwhile, Republican groups are already lining up to defend the seat, forecasting a hard-fought and heavily funded race that could exceed $150 million in total spending.
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