Republican Sen. Tillis of North Carolina announces he won’t run in 2026 after opposing Trump’s big bill

Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina announced on Sunday that he will not seek reelection in 2026, citing the increasingly difficult political environment for those who buck their party and go it alone. Tillis' decision creates a political opportunity for Democrats seeking to bolster their numbers in the 2026 midterm elections. The announcement came a day after Tillis opposed President Donald Trump's tax breaks and spending cuts package due to its reductions to health care programs. Trump had already been threatening Tillis with a primary challenge, and posted that Tillis' announcement was "Great News!" Tillis said he was proud of his career in public service but acknowledged the difficult political environment for those who embrace bipartisanship and compromise. Republicans hold a 53-47 edge in the Senate, and Tillis' retirement could make him a wild card in a party where few lawmakers are willing to risk Trump's wrath. Trump had berated Tillis for voting against advancing the massive tax bill, accusing him of seeking publicity and doing nothing to help his constituents. The GOP leadership's decision to forge ahead with cuts to Medicaid and Trump's social media post calling for a primary challenger made it clear to Tillis that he would not have the freedom to campaign with independence. Democrats expressed confidence about their prospects, with former Rep. Wiley Nickel saying he was ready for any Republican challenger. Tillis' decision is seen as another sign of the dramatic transformation of the Republican Party under Trump, with few lawmakers critical of the president or his agenda remaining in office.