Republicans are coalescing behind former Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley’s anticipated bid for North Carolina’s open Senate seat.
President Donald Trump and the National Republican Senatorial Committee posted on social media on Thursday in support of Whatley, who is expected to formally enter the race soon. Although it’s not yet a formal endorsement — which generally comes with financial backing in the primary and general election — the NRSC signaling its support effectively makes Whatley the frontrunner for the GOP nominating contest, particularly after Trump’s daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, opted to forgo a bid for the seat.
“Michael Whatley is a strong America First conservative who will be a champion for North Carolina in the U.S. Senate,” NRSC Chair Tim Scott said in a statement on X.