Whatley

North Carolina Republican National Committee chairman Michael Whatley dismissed a poll showing Democrat Roy Cooper with a large lead in the state's 2026 U.S. Senate race, calling it a 'trash poll.' The race is expected to be one of the most competitive Senate contests in the country, and Whatley's sharp response underscores how seriously Republicans are taking Cooper's potential candidacy.

Roy Cooper has intensified his criticism of Michael Whatley in their North Carolina Senate race, arguing his rival's record would worsen cost-of-living pressures on families. Cooper is campaigning hard on affordability promises, including lower prices and healthcare costs, as voting approaches. The sharpened tone signals the contest's focus on household expenses in the final stretch.

A new Catawba poll for the 2026 election shows Cooper leading Whatley by 12 percentage points. The survey offers an early snapshot of the race, with a sizable gap between the two candidates well ahead of the vote.

North Carolina news outlet WRAL reports that Whatley is doubling down on his support for tariffs, the war with Iran, and tax cuts. The statement restates his backing for the three policies without additional detail, positioning him firmly behind the administration's economic and military agenda as voters weigh the costs of trade barriers, Middle East conflict, and deficit-adding tax reductions.