Lara Trump emerges as potential candidate for Tillis’ Senate seat

President Donald Trump has reacted to the announcement that Sen. Thom Tillis will not seek re-election next year in North Carolina with enthusiasm, calling it “Great News.” With Tillis out of the picture, Trump and his political team are now in a position to play a significant role in selecting the 2026 GOP nominee in North Carolina.

According to a Republican operative, Trump’s influence over the Republican Party is undeniable, and he will likely have a say in choosing the next candidate. One of the top contenders for the nomination is Lara Trump, the president’s daughter-in-law and a former co-chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC). Lara Trump, who is known for her fundraising prowess and discipline, is seen as a strong candidate for the Senate seat.

In the past, Lara Trump considered running for an open Senate seat in North Carolina but ultimately decided against it due to family reasons. However, with Tillis stepping down, she may reconsider her decision and throw her hat into the ring. Another potential candidate is RNC Chair Michael Whatley, who has the support of Trump and is focused on growing Republican majorities in Congress.

Rep. Richard Hudson, a close ally of Trump, is also being considered for the Senate race in North Carolina. Additionally, several first-term Republican congressmen in the state, including Reps. Pat Harrigan, Tim Moore, Brad Knott, and Murphy, may be interested in running for the seat.

On the Democratic side, former Rep. Wiley Nickel and former Gov. Roy Cooper are potential candidates for the Senate race. Cooper, a two-term Democratic governor, is considered the most formidable contender and could help Democrats flip the seat from red to blue.

The announcement of Tillis’ retirement has shifted the dynamics of the North Carolina Senate race, with political analysts now rating it as a Toss Up. Democrats see this as a prime opportunity to win the seat, which has been held by Republicans since 2008.

Overall, the retirement of Sen. Thom Tillis has opened up a competitive race in North Carolina, with both Republicans and Democrats eyeing the opportunity to secure the Senate seat. The involvement of President Trump and his political team will likely play a significant role in shaping the outcome of the GOP nomination process and the general election in 2026.