With Senator Thom Tillis's unexpected retirement announcement, political dynamics in North Carolina are poised for a significant shift. Lara Trump, the president's daughter-in-law, is "seriously considering" a run for the soon-to-be-vacant Senate seat, sources close to her have disclosed. This move could dramatically alter the Republican primary landscape in the Tar Heel State.
The news broke late on Sunday, just a day after Sen. Tillis (R-NC) surprised the political world with his retirement plans. Tillis has been a notable figure in the Senate, recently clashing with President Trump over the Big Beautiful Bill, which he voted against, earning the president's public ire. This conflict, along with Tillis's decision, has cleared a path for Lara Trump, who has substantial political experience and conservative credentials.
Lara Trump's entry into the race is seen by some insiders as practically inevitable. One source described it to NBC News as a "done deal," suggesting that her candidacy would significantly discourage any serious competition. Her strong consideration comes amidst escalating tensions between President Trump and Sen. Tillis, with the former labeling the latter a "grandstander" who failed to support key White House priorities.
The president's criticisms followed Tillis's controversial vote against the administration's legislative priority, which only amplified the attention on his retirement announcement. Made public on Sunday morning, Tillis cited personal priorities over political ambitions as his reason for stepping down, emphasizing his desire to spend more time with family.
Lara Trump, known for her role as co-chair of the Republican National Committee during the 2024 presidential campaign, has gained national recognition within the conservative movement. Previously contemplating a political run in her home state, she chose not to pursue a campaign in 2020, leaving supporters to speculate about her future in politics. Her name also surfaced in the context of the open Florida Senate seat, before she withdrew from consideration, a move that may have been strategic in anticipation of the North Carolina opportunity.
Polling data indicates that Lara Trump would be a formidable candidate in the North Carolina Senate race. A Victory Insights poll from the previous year showed her with a commanding lead over Tillis among likely Republican primary voters, boasting 65 percent support in a hypothetical matchup.
Her potential candidacy comes at a time when the Trump family's political influence continues to be a significant factor in Republican politics. With the president's public criticism of Tillis and the senator's subsequent retirement, the stage seems set for Lara Trump's political ambitions to take the spotlight.
As the political theater in North Carolina heats up, observers are keenly watching Lara Trump's next moves. Her decision, whether to run or not, will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the future of the state's political landscape and the balance of power within the Republican Party.
