Republican Senator Thom Tillis announced on 29 June that he will not seek another term in 2026, immediately turning North Carolina’s Senate race into one of the highest-profile contests of the next midterm cycle. Attention has focused on Lara Trump, the president’s daughter-in-law and a Wilmington native, after multiple people close to the family said she is 'seriously considering' entering the Republican primary. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on 1 July, President Donald Trump said 'somebody that would really be great is Lara … that would always be my first choice,' citing her experience as a former Republican National Committee co-chair and her ties to the state. Lara Trump publicly addressed the speculation during a Fox News interview late 2 July, saying, 'I would love to have the opportunity to represent the people of my home state in North Carolina. It would be a great honor of mine,' while adding that her family has not made a final decision. Party strategists say her entry—and an expected endorsement from the president—could quickly clear the Republican field, where RNC Chair Michael Whatley and several House members have been mentioned as possibilities. Democrats are also weighing their options; a source close to former Governor Roy Cooper says he is leaning toward running, setting up a potential marquee matchup. Under state law, candidates must be registered with a party for at least 90 days before filing opens in December 2025, meaning Lara Trump would need to re-establish residency by early autumn. With North Carolina viewed as a pivotal swing state, the outcome could help decide control of a narrowly divided Senate in 2026.