Trump Celebrates Newest GOP Resignation
“Great News!” Trump Says After North Carolina Senator Announces Exit Over GOP Spending Bill Dispute
President Donald Trump is celebrating what many see as a major win for the MAGA movement: the retirement of Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.). On Sunday night, Trump posted a triumphant message on Truth Social, writing, “Great News!”—just hours after Tillis revealed he will not seek reelection in 2026.
The announcement followed a fiery public dispute between Trump and Tillis over the GOP’s latest tax, spending, and healthcare legislation. Tillis was one of only two Republican senators to oppose the bill’s advancement on Saturday, citing concerns about Medicaid changes that he claims would cost North Carolina over $30 billion. He instead supported the House’s version, which included different Medicaid language.
Trump Slams Tillis, Signals Support for Pro-Trump Challenger
President Trump held nothing back. In response to Tillis opposing the America First-supported bill, Trump suggested he’s open to endorsing a primary challenger. “A number of individuals have expressed interest in running against ‘Senator Thom’ Tillis in the primary,” Trump stated. “I’ll be meeting with them in the coming weeks to find someone who truly represents the great people of North Carolina—and our country.”
He also labeled Tillis a “talker and complainer, not a doer”—a sharp rebuke that reflects growing frustration within the GOP base over lawmakers who resist Trump’s conservative policy agenda, especially on healthcare, tax reform, and government spending.
Tillis Bows Out, Cites Family and ‘Political Theater’
In his formal announcement, Tillis signaled he’s prepared to step away from Capitol Hill. “Over the past year, several of my colleagues have noticed—and occasionally joked—that I haven’t shown much enthusiasm for seeking another term,” he said.
Rather than pursue a third term, the two-term senator said he intends to focus on family life with his wife Susan, their children, and grandchildren. “The decision wasn’t difficult—I won’t be running for re-election,” Tillis stated. “I’m eager to have the freedom to speak candidly and continue serving the people of North Carolina as best I can.”
What This Means for 2026: Opportunity for a True Conservative
Tillis’s departure leaves a major opening in North Carolina for a pro-Trump, America First conservative to run in 2026. With border security, inflation, government spending, and healthcare reform front and center, many Republican voters are ready for new leadership that aligns fully with Trump’s agenda.
This could be a golden opportunity for a rising GOP star to step forward—someone who backs strong national defense, lower taxes, energy independence, and real conservative values.
