Lara Trump, the daughter-in-law of President Donald Trump, announced Thursday that she will not pursue a campaign for the U.S. Senate seat in North Carolina, ending months of speculation and paving the way for RNC Chair Michael Whatley to enter the race with full backing from the Trump family.
In a statement posted on X, Lara Trump said, “After much consideration and heartfelt discussions with my family, friends, and supporters, I have decided not to pursue the United States Senate seat in North Carolina at this time. I look forward to the future, wherever that leads.”
Politico reported that her decision followed Donald Trump’s endorsement of Whatley, who currently serves as chair of the Republican National Committee. Two individuals familiar with the matter told the outlet that Whatley, 57, is expected to formally announce his candidacy within days and will receive support from both the president and Lara Trump.
Until the announcement, Lara Trump—married to Eric Trump—had been widely expected to enter the race. A native of Wilmington, she began considering a Senate run in June after Senator Thom Tillis declared he would not seek reelection.
Tillis, a frequent critic of Donald Trump, clashed with the president over legislative priorities, including the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill,” which he opposed. Trump vowed at the time to endorse any Republican willing to challenge Tillis, signaling his readiness to reshape North Carolina’s GOP landscape.
While Trump decisively carried North Carolina in the 2024 presidential election, Democrats view Tillis’ retirement as a rare opening. Former Democratic Governor Roy Cooper is reportedly preparing to announce his candidacy on Monday, setting the stage for a highly contested race.
According to Politico, Trump believes Whatley’s strong ties to party donors and grassroots organizations will give Republicans an edge in the election. A Watauga County native, Whatley previously led the North Carolina Republican Party before becoming RNC chair in March 2024.
This marks the third time Lara Trump has considered a Senate bid. She previously eyed a campaign for retiring Senator Richard Burr’s seat in 2022 but chose not to run. She was later floated as a replacement for Marco Rubio, who left the Senate to become Secretary of State, though her name was withdrawn shortly after.
Lara Trump resigned as RNC co-chair in December 2024, further fueling speculation about her political future. Since stepping down, she has pursued a media career, launching a Fox News talk show, My View with Lara Trump, and releasing Christian pop music. Her sixth single dropped earlier this week.