Former Rep. Wiley Nickel is ending his campaign for North Carolina's open Senate seat, endorsing former Gov. Roy Cooper, who is now expected to glide to the Democrat nomination.
"I proudly endorse Governor Cooper for U.S. Senate and look forward to doing everything I can to help him flip this Senate seat from red to blue," said Nickel in a statement. "I've still got a lot of work left to do; that part hasn't changed. Public service is a part of who I am, and you'll hear more from me soon."
Nickel praised Cooper for his "steady, bipartisan leadership."
"He listens, he shows up, and he gets things done," Nickel said. "From making North Carolina the top state for business to guiding our communities through natural disasters, his leadership has made a real difference."
Cooper is running to replace Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., who is retiring after two terms. Michael Whatley, the head of the Republican National Committee, is expected to enter the race, having already been endorsed by President Donald Trump. Lara Trump, Trump's daughter-in-law, declined to run.
North Carolina is considered one of Democrats' best chances of flipping a Senate seat as they aim to cut in Republicans' 53-47 edge in the upper chamber.
Rep. Don Davis, D-N.C., had considered running, but is leaning against a bid with Cooper in the race, Politico reported.
Nickel is now considering a run for district attorney in Wake County, the Tar Heel State's largest county, Semafor reported.
Sam Barron ✉
Sam Barron has almost two decades of experience covering a wide range of topics including politics, crime and business.
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.