Roy Cooper Leads Michael Whatley in North Carolina Senate Race
Former Governor Roy Cooper holds a 9-point lead over Republican Michael Whatley in a new poll ahead of North Carolina's November 3 Senate election.
Former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper holds a 9-percentage point lead over Republican Michael Whatley in the race for an open U.S. Senate seat. An East Carolina University poll released Sunday shows Cooper with 54% support compared to Whatley's 45% among likely voters, an increase from a previous 7-point lead.
Cooper maintains strength among women, Black voters, and independent voters, while Whatley leads among men, white voters, and those aged 65 and older. The poll indicates that 47% of voters prioritize the economy and cost of living, an issue where Cooper leads 67% to 33%. Other primary concerns for voters include foreign policy regarding Iran and border security.
Whatley, the former Republican National Committee Chairman, entered the race following an endorsement from President Donald Trump on July 24, 2025. The seat became available after Senator Thom Tillis declined to seek reelection. Whatley won the Republican primary in March with 64.57% of the vote, while Cooper secured the Democratic nomination with 91.98%.
Polling places in North Carolina are open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday, November 3. Official results are expected following a statewide canvass on November 24.
