Fox News host and Donald Trump’s daughter-in-law Lara Trump is reportedly considering young the race to replace Republican Sen. Thom Tillis in North Carolina.
A source close to the Trump family told NBC News that Trump is “strongly considering jumping in the race.”
“I’d put it as high as one could be considering it…The race will be over before it begins,” the source added referring to the Republican primary.
Tillis announced Sunday that he won’t seek reelection in 2026, hours after Donald Trump threatened to back a primary challenge against him when he refused to support his massive spending and tax bill which he dubbed the “big, beautiful bill.”
“It’s not a hard choice, and I will not be seeking re-election,” Tillis said in a statement Sunday. “It’s become increasingly evident that leaders who are willing to embrace bipartisanship, compromise, and demonstrate independent thinking are becoming an endangered species.”
Other potential Republican contenders include Reps Richard Hudson and Pat Harrigan. RNC Chairman Mike Whatley, who formerly chaired the North Carolina GOP, is also considering running for the seat.
Tillis has been a top target for Democrats in next year’s midterms and the party is even more hopeful of flipping the seat as they try to recruit former Gov. Roy Cooper.
“Thom Tillis’ decision not to run for reelection is another blow to Republicans’ chances as they face a midterm backlash that puts their majority at risk,” Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee spokesperson Maeve Coyle said in a statement. “Even Tillis admits the GOP plan to slash Medicaid and spike costs for families is toxic — and in 2026, Democrats will flip North Carolina’s Senate seat.”
