Election 2026: Republicans ride with Whatley, Buckhout in pivotal races

(The Center Square) – Republicans retaining majority rule in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives with influence from North Carolina shall ride with Michael Whatley and Laurie Buckhhout.

More than $1 billion will be spent between their races. Whatley, a foregone conclusion to beat six others on the ballot Tuesday, and Buckhout, in a more competitive five candidate field, will each be heavily helped by political action committees armed with messages to hurt respective opponents Democratic Senate candidate Roy Cooper and Democratic incumbent U.S. Rep. Don Davis.

“This election is a choice,” Whatley told supporters at his victory party. “A choice between leadership that stands with working families, or a choice for a career politician who prioritizes radical special interests from California and New York. A choice between safer communities, or politicians who protect criminals and illegal aliens to appease radical left-wing groups.

“Roy Cooper sided with criminals and North Carolina communitie...