Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley Advance in North Carolina Senate Primaries
In Brief
Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley won their party primaries for North Carolina’s open Senate seat.
Key Facts
- North Carolina held Senate primaries for the seat being vacated by Republican Senator Thom Tillis.
- Roy Cooper, former Democratic governor, won the Democratic primary, according to multiple sources.
- Michael Whatley, former Republican National Committee Chairman, won the Republican primary, according to multiple sources.
- Both Cooper and Whatley emerged from crowded primary fields to become their parties’ nominees.
- The November Senate race is described by several sources as highly competitive and a potential opportunity for Democrats.
What Happened
Voters in North Carolina selected Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley as the Democratic and Republican nominees for the U.S. Senate seat. The seat is open due to incumbent Senator Thom Tillis not seeking reelection. Both candidates won their primaries after competing against multiple opponents.
Why It Matters
The outcome of the November Senate race could influence the balance of power in the U.S. Senate. Multiple sources note that the contest is considered competitive, with both parties viewing the seat as significant for their national strategies.
Sources
- CBS News — Why are North Carolina Senate primaries so crucial?(1h ago)
- CBS News — Whatley, Cooper projected to win North Carolina primaries, teeing up key Senate contest(just now)
- NYT — Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley Advance in North Carolina Senate Race(just now)
- NPR News — Roy Cooper, Michael Whatley set to compete for a high stakes North Carolina US senate seat(just now)
- NPR News — Roy Cooper, Michael Whatley set to compete for a high stakes North Carolina U.S. Senate seat(just now)
- CBS News — Whatley and Cooper win Senate primaries in North Carolina(just now)
- The Independent — Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley win North Carolina primaries(just now)