U.S. Senate (Democratic Primary)

The U.S. Senators for North Carolina represent all 11 million citizens of the state at the federal level for six-year terms. They vote on federal legislation, confirm presidential appointments, ratify treaties and secure federal funding for state priorities. The U.S. Senate currently has 53 Republicans and 45 Democrats, as well as 2 independents who caucus with Democrats.

Former Gov. Roy Cooper faces five challengers. The winner of this primary will face the winner of the Republican primary in the fall of 2026. Observers expect this U.S. Senate race to attract significant national attention and to be one of the most expensive political races ever in U.S. history.

The seat is held by Republican Sen. Thom Tillis, who decided not to seek reelection because of the "politican theater and partisan gridlock" in D.C. Democrats have not won a Senate election in North Carolina since 2008. However, the heavy media attention provides the possibility of flipping a seat in a swing state. North Carolina’s other senator, Republican Ted Budd, was elected in 2022. That seat will be up for election in 2028.

U.S. Senate (Democratic Primary) Candidates