Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican representing North Carolina, announced on Sunday that he will not seek re-election when his current term concludes. This declaration came shortly after he cast a critical vote against the advancement of President Donald Trump’s tax legislation, which reportedly did not sit well with the president.
In a statement, Tillis expressed, “As many of my colleagues have noticed over the last year, and at times even joked about, I haven’t exactly been excited about running for another term.”
He elaborated on his decision, stating, “That is true since the choice is between spending another six years navigating the political theatre and partisan gridlock in Washington or spending that time with the love of my life Susan, our two children, three beautiful grandchildren, and the rest of our extended family back home.” He concluded, “It’s not a hard choice, and I will not be seeking re-election.”
The announcement is expected to ignite a competitive and potentially expensive electoral battle in North Carolina, a pivotal state where Trump had previously indicated he might support a primary challenger to the incumbent Senator.
Tillis’ dissenting vote on the major tax bill highlights his ongoing critique of Trump’s legislative agenda. In a significant late Saturday vote, he was one of two Republicans to oppose the proposal.
Following Tillis’ decision, Trump took to Truth Social to express his discontent, stating, “Numerous people have come forward wanting to run in the Primary against ‘Senator Thom’ Tillis.” He added, “I will be meeting with them over the coming weeks, looking for someone who will properly represent the Great People of North Carolina and, so importantly, the United States of America.”
Tillis has held his Senate seat since 2014, and it is poised to be a key target for Democrats eager to capitalize on the opportunity in the upcoming midterm elections.
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