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President Donald Trump has floated his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, as a potential candidate to replace Senator Thom Tillis, who announced he will not seek reelection in North Carolina. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump praised Lara as “a great person” and his “first choice” to fill the seat, noting her North Carolina roots, despite her current residence in Florida.
Tillis, one of only three Senate Republicans to vote against Trump’s sweeping tax-cut and spending bill, cited concerns over deep cuts to Medicaid that could negatively impact low-income constituents. The bill narrowly passed the Senate and now awaits final approval in the House. Trump had previously expressed frustration with Tillis’ opposition and hinted at supporting a primary challenger.
Lara Trump, wife of Eric Trump, has been a rising figure in Republican politics. She served as co-chair of the Republican National Committee during the 2024 campaign and currently hosts “My View with Lara Trump” on FOX News Channel. Though she once considered a Senate run in Florida, she ultimately declined.
The North Carolina race is expected to be one of the most competitive in the 2026 midterms, which could determine control of Congress. Republicans currently hold a 53-47 Senate majority, with most GOP incumbents running in Trump-friendly states. Trump carried North Carolina by three points in 2024.
On the Democratic side, former U.S. Representative Wiley Nickel has declared his candidacy, while party leaders are urging popular former Governor Roy Cooper to enter the race. With Tillis out, the contest is wide open and poised to become a major battleground in 2026.
