North Carolina’s former Governor Roy Cooper has officially announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate in 2026, aiming to succeed retiring Republican Senator Thom Tillis. The announcement is being hailed as a significant development for Democrats, who see the seat as one of their best opportunities to flip a key Senate race in a competitive swing state.

Cooper, a two-term governor who left office in early 2025, is widely known across North Carolina for his moderate leadership style and bipartisan appeal. His entry into the race brings a well-known and experienced figure to the Democratic ticket, instantly reshaping the 2026 Senate landscape.

Senator Tillis, a prominent Republican voice in the Senate, announced earlier this year that he will not seek re-election after serving two terms. His retirement leaves an open seat in a state that has been increasingly seen as a political battleground in recent elections.

Democrats are optimistic that Cooper’s statewide recognition and prior electoral success will give them a strong chance to retake the seat in what’s expected to be a closely watched and fiercely contested race.