Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley launched his campaign for North Carolina's open U.S. Senate seat Thursday, equipped with President Donald Trump's endorsement and a large fundraising network for a potential general election bid against formidable Democrat Roy Cooper.

The attacks included the campaign of Gov. Roy Cooper, who could end up facing Whatley in the 2026 general election.

The decision sets the stage for what is likely to be a heavyweight battle between a behind-the-scenes political insider and a former governor with a knack for winning unaffiliated voters.