Trump Endorses His Daughter-In-Law
President Donald Trump has named his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, as a possible frontrunner to replace retiring Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC)—a move that could reshape the 2026 Senate landscape and energize conservative voters in a key battleground state.
During a recent interview, President Trump was asked who he believes should run for the open seat. His response was clear:
“Lara would be an incredible choice. She grew up in North Carolina. She knows the people. She loves the state.”
While Lara Trump and her husband Eric Trump currently live in Florida, President Trump emphasized her deep family roots in the Tar Heel State.
“Her parents are there. She’s there all the time. And even though she’s in Florida, she never really left North Carolina,” he said. “She’s done an amazing job with the Republican National Committee, and her weekend Fox News show is a huge hit.”
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Lara Trump recently served as Co-Chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC) during the 2024 election cycle, where she focused on grassroots fundraising, voter outreach, and expanding the America First movement. Her strong media presence and leadership credentials have made her a household name among conservative voters.
She was previously floated as a candidate for the U.S. Senate when Sen. Richard Burr retired in 2022 but ultimately decided not to enter that race. With this new opening, speculation is mounting that 2026 could be the right moment.
“She’s always been my top choice,” Trump added. “She’d win big. The people of North Carolina love her.”
Sen. Tillis Steps Aside After Breaking With Trump
The news of Lara Trump’s potential candidacy comes just days after Senator Tillis shocked many by announcing he would not seek reelection. The timing is especially notable—Tillis had recently drawn fire from Trump’s base after voting against the President’s latest America First spending bill, which passed the Senate earlier this week.
Tillis’s opposition to the bill sparked renewed frustration among conservative voters, especially those who supported Trump’s call to cut wasteful spending while protecting Social Security, Medicare, and national defense.
Lara Trump 2026? A Game-Changer for the GOP
A Lara Trump candidacy would instantly shake up the 2026 Senate race. With national name recognition, powerful grassroots support, and the backing of President Trump, she would be a formidable force in both the primary and general election.
Pollsters and strategists believe her entry could energize older voters, rural communities, and suburban women—groups that are critical to flipping or securing key Senate seats in the upcoming midterms.