Cooper and Whatley clash over North Carolina Senate seat
The open seat in the Tar Heel State is positioned as a deciding factor for control of the U.S. Senate, with early voting already open in the state.
By Katherine Diallo ·
North Carolina voters head to the polls on Tuesday to select a replacement for a retiring U.S. Senator, a contest that national parties view as the potential tipping point for the chamber majority.
Former Governor Roy Cooper, a Democrat who served from 2017 to 2025, challenges former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley for the open slot.
The two men offer distinct plans for the state’s economy. Cooper told WBTV that he would prioritize working with state officials on economic recruiting and expanding healthcare access to attract businesses.
Whatley, a former N.C. GOP chair, argues that the state is already a leader in tech and industry. He stated that the state needs to fire on all cylinders through a mix of tax, regulatory, and trade policies.
On the cost of living, Cooper pledged to use his time in Washington to lower gas and grocery prices. Whatley countered that his policies will help voters make more and keep more of their own money.
The candidates also sparred over the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Whatley accused Cooper of abandoning survivors in Western North Carolina and promised to push for additional federal aid for recovery efforts.
Source: WBTV
