The 2026 primary season concluded on September 15, 2026, when voters in Delaware cast their ballots. With seven weeks remaining until Election Day, Lisa Desjardins reports on the Democratic Party's prospects for gaining control of the Senate, focusing on the North Carolina Senate race alongside Colin Campbell from public media station WUNC.
In North Carolina, Democrats view the race as a significant opportunity to flip a Republican seat. Former Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley is the candidate endorsed by President Trump, who visited the state to support him. An Elon University poll indicates that former Governor Roy Cooper, the Democratic candidate, holds a double-digit lead over Whatley.
Colin Campbell provides insights on the race, noting that the expected competitiveness has not materialized as anticipated. Cooper's lead has remained stable over recent months. Trump's visit may energize the Republican base, although his approval ratings in North Carolina are reportedly low, which could affect swing voters.
Whatley has chosen to align closely with Trump, showing little effort to distance himself from the former president's policies. His campaign has shifted focus from praising Trump to attacking Cooper.
Key issues in the Senate race include affordability and crime. Cooper emphasizes economic issues through his 'Make Stuff Cost Less Tour,' while Whatley promotes a tough-on-crime stance, linking Cooper to criminal justice policies. Both candidates have established distinct campaign themes, with Cooper focusing on affordability and Whatley on crime.
This race is being closely monitored as a potential indicator of Democratic success in the upcoming elections.