Whatley and Cooper Secure Their Respective Nominations

Yesterday, North Carolinians headed to the polls for the March 3rd primary. As expected former Governor Roy Cooper secured the Democrat nomination, and Trump-endorsed former RNC Chairman, Michael Whatley easily secured the Republican nomination. Now that the primary has concluded, the general election is underway. North Carolina’s Senate contest is expected to set records as the most expensive Senate race in American history.  

On his primary victory, Whatley said, “Republicans are united and now the real campaign begins. This election is a clear choice. Voters will choose between an agenda that supports and prioritizes working families of North Carolina and law-abiding citizens, or Roy Cooper’s agenda that prioritizes the desires of radical political activists ahead of public safety and affordability.”  

Whatley said the race will focus on public safety, border security, health care costs, and affordability; drawing a direct contrast with Cooper’s record as governor. 

“As North Carolina Governor, Roy Cooper released inmates, blocked cooperation with immigration enforcement, and presided over rising costs, including some of the highest health care expenses in the country,” Whatley said. “Families are paying more but feeling less safe.” 

Whatley thanked President Donald J. Trump for his support and said Republicans are unified heading into November. 

“November is about the future of this state and nation,” Whatley said. “Safer communities, lower costs, and leadership that puts law-abiding Americans first!” 

Cooper did not release a statement on his primary victory; instead, the national Democrats’ campaign organization released a poorly produced ad with tired, negative attacks.  

Tim’s Take: The Whatley Cooper race will be the top race in North Carolina in 2026. Given the national situation, the race will likely draw enormous spending from likely draw both Republicans and Democrats. Cooper’s decision to allow out-of-state Democrats to speak for him after the primary, instead of issuing a statement himself, demonstrates that if elected, Cooper will allow Chuck Schumer to speak for him. Which is why throughout the campaign, Cooper has done everything possible to align himself with out-of-state liberals.