Cooper Outraises Whatley in Q1 as Money Floods North Carolina Senate Race

Overview

• In the first quarter of 2026, Roy Cooper reported $13.8 million raised while Michael Whatley reported $5 million.
• Including late 2025 and party‑linked fundraising committees, supporters have pledged more than $50 million to the two campaigns.
• Totals so far show at least $36 million for Cooper’s campaign and allied efforts and at least $16 million for Whatley’s.
• Outside money is already surging, with the Senate Leadership Fund committing $71 million to back Whatley and independent spending approaching nine figures.
• Recent polls vary from a statistical tie to a 14‑point Cooper lead, keeping the focus on unaffiliated voters who make up more than 38% of the state’s electorate.