The announcement about Tillis’ Senate seat has sparked immediate interest among Republican candidates. First-term House Republicans are already considering runs for the open North Carolina seat.
Harrigan, a former Army Special Forces officer deployed to Afghanistan, won his seat representing North Carolina’s 10th district in November 2024. Now, he eyes a bigger political stage with Tillis’ Senate seat becoming available.
Meanwhile, Rep. Tim Moore, another first-term GOP lawmaker and former North Carolina House speaker, also contemplates entering the Senate race. These potential candidates set the stage for what may become a crowded Republican primary for Tillis’ Senate seat.
Senator Thom Tillis shocked many when he announced he would not seek re-election. In a statement, Tillis criticized today’s political climate, saying many elected officials focus on politics rather than real issues. He pointed to policy consequences that affect struggling Americans in rural areas, like those in trailer parks.
Moreover, Tillis shared his personal reasons, emphasizing his desire to spend time with his family instead of enduring Washington’s political gridlock. This came as the Senate debated the “big, beautiful bill,” a sweeping legislative package pushing President Trump’s agenda on taxes, immigration, energy, and national defense.
Tillis opposed the bill due to cuts to Medicaid, which he said would harm rural communities and hospitals in North Carolina. On Saturday, the Senate voted 51-49 to begin debate on the bill. Tillis and Senator Rand Paul were the only Republicans to vote “no.”
President Trump quickly responded, saying many candidates want to challenge Tillis in the primary. Trump promised to meet with them soon and find the best person to represent North Carolina and the United States.
In sum, Tillis’ Senate seat is now a key focal point for Republicans preparing for the 2026 midterm elections. The race promises to be competitive and closely watched.
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