Senator Thom Tillis Announces 2026 Retirement Following Policy Disagreement with President

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) announced on June 29, 2025, that he will not seek re-election in 2026, a decision that followed a public disagreement with President Donald Trump over a significant budget bill. The North Carolina Republican's announcement opens a competitive Senate seat in a key battleground state. Tillis's decision came shortly after he voted against advancing President Trump's "big, beautiful bill," citing concerns over its proposed cuts to Medicaid.

The Senator's vote and subsequent retirement announcement drew strong reactions, including from President Trump, who had publicly criticized Tillis. Tillis stated that his decision was influenced by a desire for independent thinking in Washington and a wish to spend more time with his family. He expressed that leaders willing to embrace bipartisanship and compromise are becoming "an endangered species."

North Carolina Governor-elect Josh Stein, a Democrat, acknowledged Senator Tillis's long career in public service in a social media post. Stein stated, > "I’ve known and worked with Thom since our days in the state legislature and thank him for his years of service to North Carolina there and in the U.S. Senate. Anna and I wish him and Susan the best and much joy with their grandchildren." This tweet highlighted their shared history, having served together in the state legislature.

Tillis, who has served in the U.S. Senate since 2015 and previously as Speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives, has often been characterized as a moderate Republican willing to cross party lines. His departure sets the stage for a highly anticipated 2026 Senate race, with both Republican and Democratic parties assessing potential candidates for the open seat. The political landscape in North Carolina is expected to be a major focus in the upcoming election cycle.