The 2026 Senate races are already taking shape, even though the general election is still a year and a half away. The candidate pools in key states like Georgia, Michigan, and North Carolina, which will be crucial in determining the Senate's balance of power, are beginning to narrow.
In Michigan, Republican Rep. Bill Huizenga announced he would not be running for Senate. This strengthens former Rep. Mike Rogers' position as the likely Republican nominee. Rogers, who previously served in Congress, lost to current Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin in 2024 by a narrow margin. President Donald Trump has endorsed Rogers, and he has also received early endorsements from Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Sen. Tim Scott.
The Democratic side in Michigan has not yet narrowed down its field of candidates. The frontrunners include Rep. Haley Stevens, state Senate Majority Whip Mallory McMorrow, and Abdul El-Sayed.
The situation in North Carolina is also becoming clearer. Lara Trump, the president's daughter-in-law, announced she would not be running for Senate. Republicans need a new candidate because moderate Republican Sen. Thom Tillis is not seeking reelection. Trump has endorsed Michael Whatley, who co-chaired the GOP during the election.
Rep. Mark Harris believes that being pro-Trump is likely an advantage for the Republican nominee in North Carolina. Democrats appear to be nearing a decision on their nominee, with former Gov. Roy Cooper expected to enter the race. Rep. Greg Murphy believes that any Republican nominee will need bipartisan appeal to defeat Cooper.
In Georgia, Republicans have an opportunity to gain ground. Jon Ossoff, who narrowly won in a runoff election in 2020, will be seeking reelection. The Republican field includes Rep. Buddy Carter, and Rep. Mike Collins is considering a run. Earlier, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Gov. Brian Kemp had dismissed speculation about possible Senate runs, and Georgia Insurance Commissioner John King has withdrawn his bid.
4 Comments
Michelangelo
Trump's endorsements mean nothing to voters who are tired of division and chaos. His influence is waning.
Leonardo
Why does anyone want Lara Trump to run? Being the president's daughter-in-law doesn't equate to political experience!
Donatello
Mike Rogers has solid experience and Trump’s endorsement might just give him the edge he needs.
Raphael
Excited to see more debates and discussions as candidates emerge. It’s going to be a lively election!