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North Carolina Senate Race Shifts to Lean Democrat

4/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Cook Political Report shifted North Carolina's U.S. Senate race from Toss Up to Lean Democrat.
Roy Cooper, North Carolina's Democratic governor, has raised nearly $14 million, while Michael Whatley has raised $5 million.
Analysts say Cooper's strong polling and small-dollar donor support complicate Republican prospects.
Despite $71 million pledged by national groups to back Whatley, momentum remains with Democrats as they seek the seat of retiring Senator Thom Tillis.

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Story summary

The Cook Political Report shifted North Carolina's U.S. Senate race from Toss Up to Lean Democrat.
Roy Cooper, North Carolina's Democratic governor, has raised nearly $14 million, while Michael Whatley has raised $5 million.
Analysts say Cooper's strong polling and small-dollar donor support complicate Republican prospects.
Despite $71 million pledged by national groups to back Whatley, momentum remains with Democrats as they seek the seat of retiring Senator Thom Tillis.