Wiley Nickel Bows Out of Senate Race, Endorses Roy Cooper
Wiley Nickel, a former Democrat from North Carolina, announced on Tuesday that he is suspending his campaign for the state’s open Senate seat to endorse fellow Democrat Roy Cooper.
In a statement shared on X, Nickel expressed his pride in supporting Cooper for the upcoming 2026 Senate race. He mentioned his commitment to help flip the Senate seat from Republican to Democrat. This announcement followed Cooper’s official entry into the race, which he made just the day before.
Nickel stated, “I still have a lot left to do, and that part hasn’t changed. Public service is part of who I am, and you will hear more from me soon.”
Nickel tweeted, “Today I have stopped the Senate campaign and proudly support Roy Cooper. We launched this campaign to send Thom Tillis packing. I think the mission has been completed!”
The timing of Nickel’s announcement coincided with a report from Semafor indicating that he had already been eyeing a bid for Wake County District Attorney prior to Cooper’s declaration for the Senate. Nickel had entered the Senate race in early April and had been campaigning for nearly four months.
Having served a single term from 2023 to 2025, Nickel represented a swing district in Wake County. He chose not to seek reelection due to the changes brought about by a redistricting process that favored Republicans.
After announcing his retirement from the House in 2023, Nickel hinted at a Senate run for 2026, which ultimately set the stage for his decision to support Cooper. He was succeeded by Republican Brad Knott.
The upcoming race for the Senate seat, left vacant by retiring Republican Tom Tillis, is already shaping up to be competitive. Reports have surfaced about other candidates, including Republican National Committee chair Michael Wailey, who may enter the fray with backing from former President Donald Trump.
Lara Trump has also expressed interest in the Senate race. In a statement, she emphasized her continued passion for contributing to the country, despite previously indicating that she wasn’t pursuing the open seat.
