Republicans are closely watching as Lara Trump considers a run for the U.S. Senate in North Carolina, a move that could significantly shape the 2026 race following Senator Thom Tillis’s decision not to seek reelection. As the daughter-in-law of President Trump and a former co-chair of the Republican National Committee, Lara Trump is widely seen as the leading candidate should she decide to enter the race.
A source close to the president said she is seriously considering a bid. Her candidacy would likely clear the GOP field, as several potential contenders have indicated they would step aside if she runs. Although she has passed on previous opportunities to run for Senate, her name recognition, strong ties to North Carolina, and close alignment with the Trump family brand make her an instant frontrunner.
In the past, Lara Trump cited family considerations, including her young children, as the reason for not entering the 2022 Senate race. At that time, she endorsed Rep. Ted Budd, who went on to win. More recently, her name surfaced as a possible appointee to the Senate in Florida, though she ultimately declined.
Recent polling suggests she holds a commanding lead in a hypothetical Republican primary, even before Tillis officially announced his retirement. President Trump himself has praised her as a strong candidate and a person deeply connected to North Carolina, despite her current residence in Florida.
Other prominent Republicans, including RNC Chair Michael Whatley and Rep. Pat Harrigan, have expressed their support for Lara Trump, signaling they would step aside to back her. Party operatives see her entry into the race as a major boost, especially if Democrats put forward former Governor Roy Cooper.
Strategists believe her presence on the ballot could energize turnout among Trump loyalists, particularly in rural areas where Republicans need to perform well. GOP insiders point to her past grassroots engagement across the state and her popularity among the party base.
However, some political observers note that Lara Trump’s lack of experience as an elected official and her current out-of-state residency could be used against her. Still, Republicans point to historical examples like former Senator Elizabeth Dole, who won in North Carolina despite similar concerns.
Democrats argue that while she may excite the Republican base, she could alienate moderate voters who are key in a closely divided state. Democratic strategist Morgan Jackson noted that Tillis, despite his unpopularity among conservatives, had broader appeal to centrist voters.
Even with her potential vulnerabilities, many in the GOP view Lara Trump as their strongest contender, thanks to her name recognition and ability to draw support from loyal Trump voters who might otherwise sit out a midterm election. With the race expected to be tight regardless of the nominee, both parties acknowledge the critical role candidate quality will play in determining the outcome.
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