Roy Cooper, the former North Carolina governor, has raised an unprecedented $14.5 million in the first 65 days of his Senate campaign, setting a new record for a challenger in a highly competitive race. This amount, more than double what his GOP opponent, Michael Whatley, raised, highlights the intense competition in one of the most expensive Senate races in history, projected to cost over $650 million.
The fundraising haul, shared first with POLITICO, includes $10.8 million into Cooper’s campaign account, with an additional $3.7 million raised through joint fundraising committees with the party. Over 90 percent of the donations were $100 or less, according to Cooper’s campaign. Whatley, who has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, raised $5.8 million since launching his campaign in July.
Cooper’s fundraising total surpasses the previous record set by Amy McGrath, the former Marine fighter pilot who challenged Sen. Mitch McConnell in 2020. With Democrats locked out of power at every level in Washington, North Carolina is seen as their top offensive target, particularly after Sen. Thom Tillis announced his retirement. Despite these efforts, Democrats face long shot odds in flipping control of the Senate in 2026.
The race between Cooper and Whatley is expected to be the most expensive Senate race in history, with both parties anticipating spending between $650 million and $800 million. Cooper’s campaign has positioned this race as a critical opportunity for Democrats, even as the odds remain heavily stacked against them.
Cooper’s campaign has emphasized its broad base of small-dollar donors, with over 90 percent of contributions coming from individuals giving $100 or less. This contrasts with Whatley’s financial resources, which include a national network of donors and backing from Trump. Analysts suggest that the race will not only determine the future of North Carolina’s Senate seat but also reflect broader political trends in the 2026 midterms.
Both candidates are positioning themselves as front-runners in a race that could reshape the balance of power in the Senate. Cooper’s fundraising success signals strong Democratic support in the state, while Whatley’s campaign is viewed as a test of the Trump brand’s viability in a presidential election year.