Former two-term North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper is set to announce his Senate campaign to succeed retiring Republican Sen. Thom Tillis, a pivotal moment in the 2026 Senate race. This decision has drawn significant attention, as Cooper’s candidacy is viewed as a major boost for the Democratic Party, which has struggled to win Senate seats in North Carolina for over a decade.
Cooper is expected to launch his campaign on Monday, bringing with him his extensive experience as a former governors, including his successful two-term tenure in North Carolina from 2017 to 2021. His popularity and ability to raise substantial funds are seen as major advantages in a race that is expected to become highly competitive. Cooper’s potential entry into the race is anticipated to shift the momentum, giving the Democrats a critical edge in a battle where they have historically faced difficulties.