Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of President Donald Trump and former co-chair of the Republican National Committee, announced Thursday she will not run for retiring Sen. Thom Tillis’ North Carolina seat in 2026. Her decision clears the way for current RNC Chair Michael Whatley, who is widely expected to launch a campaign soon.
“After much consideration… I have decided not to pursue the United States Senate seat in North Carolina at this time,” Trump wrote on X. “My passion for Making America Great Again burns brightly, and I look forward to the future, wherever that leads.”
Trump’s potential candidacy had drawn national interest, especially in a key swing state where her family’s influence could have reshaped the GOP primary.
According to Axios, Whatley is preparing to announce his campaign within 10 days. A former North Carolina GOP chair, he now leads the national party following Trump’s takeover of the RNC earlier this year.
Democrats are also preparing to field a top-tier candidate. Former Gov. Roy Cooper is expected to enter the race next week, setting up a high-profile contest in a battleground state.
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