Rep. Pat Harrigan, a first-term House Republican and military veteran, is considering a run for the U.S. Senate seat in North Carolina following Senator Thom Tillis’s announcement that he will not seek re-election. Harrigan, who previously served as an Army Special Forces Officer in Afghanistan, was elected to represent North Carolina’s 10th congressional district in November 2024. This potential bid comes on the heels of President Donald Trump’s declaration to support a primary challenger to Tillis due to his dissenting vote on a significant procedural hurdle related to Trump’s proposed legislation.
In addition to Harrigan, other candidates are emerging in what may become a competitive Republican primary ahead of the 2026 midterms. Rep. Tim Moore, a fellow first-term House Republican and former speaker of the North Carolina state House of Representatives, is also contemplating a challenge for Tillis’s Senate seat. This unfolding political landscape suggests that the race could attract several candidates, reflecting growing discontent within the GOP regarding established politicians.
Tillis’s decision not to run again stemmed from frustrations with the current political climate. In a powerful statement, he criticized many elected officials for being more concerned with political maneuvering than serving their constituents. He articulated a longing for family time over navigating the contentious environment in Washington, reflecting a sentiment common among disillusioned politicians. His comments signal a turmoil within the party, where many members feel disconnected from the electorate.
The senator voiced particular concerns about the “big, beautiful bill,” a sweeping piece of legislation encompassing Trump’s agenda on critical issues such as taxes, immigration, and defense. Specifically, Tillis objected to proposed spending cuts targeting Medicaid, which he argued could adversely affect rural communities and hospitals in North Carolina. The contentious nature of the bill, alongside Tillis’s opposition, has placed him at odds with Trump and elements of the Republican base.
Trump’s involvement adds another layer of complexity to this Senate race. He has actively sought potential primary challengers to Tillis, signaling shifting allegiances within the party. In a public statement, Trump hinted at the support he is willing to provide to new candidates who align with his vision for North Carolina and the nation. This stance underscores a broader trend within the GOP of seeking candidates who are firmly committed to Trump’s policies.
As political dynamics evolve in North Carolina, the upcoming primary race for Tillis’s Senate seat promises to be significant. With Harrigan and Moore both exploring candidacies, coupled with Trump’s active engagement, the stage is set for a potentially heated contest that could reshape the future of North Carolina’s representation in the Senate. The interplay between traditional party politics and emergent populist sentiments may redefine the landscape leading up to the 2026 elections.
