Story perspectives

Whatley’s False Claims Against Cooper Spark Controversy

3/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Michael Whatley (R-N.C.) linked former Gov. Roy Cooper (D-N.C.) to Iryna Zarutska's stabbing and blamed a 2021 COVID-19 prison conditions settlement.
Fact-checks show claim false, and a Cooper spokesperson defended him, noting his record of prosecuting violent criminals.
Both candidates won their primaries and will run to replace retiring Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.).
Marc Molinaro, Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), cited systemic transit failures related to crime rates.

1 of 1

Story summary

Michael Whatley (R-N.C.) linked former Gov. Roy Cooper (D-N.C.) to Iryna Zarutska's stabbing and blamed a 2021 COVID-19 prison conditions settlement.
Fact-checks show claim false, and a Cooper spokesperson defended him, noting his record of prosecuting violent criminals.
Both candidates won their primaries and will run to replace retiring Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.).
Marc Molinaro, Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), cited systemic transit failures related to crime rates.