The NPR Politics Podcast What to watch in the race for North Carolina's open Senate seat
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Feb 23, 2026 
Colin Campbell, WUNC Capitol Bureau Chief who covers North Carolina politics, breaks down the open Senate contest and key primaries. He explains candidate lineups, how party anointing and Trump’s influence shape races, and why early voting trends and immigration politics matter. He also highlights redistricting shifts and election-administration changes to watch.
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Early Anointing Shaped Both Primaries
- Both parties anointed frontrunners early, leaving primaries low-competition despite an open Senate seat in a competitive state.
- Roy Cooper's entry cleared Democrats; Trump's endorsement of Michael Watley made other GOP hopefuls step aside.
North Carolina Is Key For Democrats' Senate Math
- North Carolina is a must-win Senate pick for Democrats because it has many independents and remains purple.
- Roy Cooper's name recognition gives Democrats an edge in a state Trump won in 2024.
Trump Will Dominate The General Election Narrative
- The race will be shaped by Trump-related messaging since Michael Watley is closely tied to Trump.
- Watley publicly refuses to disagree with Trump, so Cooper will attack on Trump-era policies like immigration and economy.