Trump Endorses Two ‘America First’ Candidates In Battle For Senate Control
President Donald Trump issued two major Senate endorsements on Thursday, throwing his support behind Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley in North Carolina and former Congressman Mike Rogers in Michigan — two battlegrounds that could determine control of the U.S. Senate in 2026.
On Truth Social, Trump praised Whatley as a “fantastic” leader and a “STRONG” advocate for border security, law and order, tax relief, the Second Amendment, and America’s military. While Whatley has yet to formally declare his candidacy, Trump’s post leaves no doubt about who he wants representing North Carolina.
“Mike would make an unbelievable Senator from North Carolina,” Trump said. “He is fantastic at everything he does, and he was certainly great at the RNC where, in the Presidential Election, we won every Swing State, the Popular Vote, and the Electoral College by a landslide!”
Trump told supporters to consider his post a “Complete and Total Endorsement” if Whatley enters the race, urging voters in the Tar Heel State to “get Michael Whatley to run.” The seat is open after Sen. Thom Tillis announced his retirement following his opposition to Trump’s signature budget bill — a break that triggered the president’s call for a primary challenger.
Lara Trump, the president’s daughter-in-law and co-chair of the RNC alongside Whatley, announced Thursday that she would not pursue the seat. Trump praised her decision and quickly moved to solidify Whatley as the heir apparent.
On the Democratic side, former Governor Roy Cooper is expected to announce his Senate run next week, setting up a high-stakes contest between two figures who represent opposite ends of the political spectrum.
In Michigan, Trump reaffirmed his backing for former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, calling him a “proven America First Patriot” with a record of military service and conservative leadership.
“From the U.S. Army to Congress, Mike has served our Nation with distinction,” Trump wrote. “He will work tirelessly to Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Help Secure our now VERY Secure Southern Border, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment.”
Rogers narrowly lost to Democrat Sen. Elissa Slotkin in 2024 but remains a formidable candidate in a state Trump has carried twice. His candidacy received a boost after Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI) announced his retirement, opening the door for Republicans to flip the seat.
Meanwhile, Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI) ended speculation about a Senate bid on Thursday, confirming he would seek re-election to the House instead. Trump immediately endorsed Huizenga for his congressional seat, praising him as a reliable ally and “solid conservative.”
With Whatley expected to vacate his post at the RNC, Trump also endorsed former Florida GOP Chair and state Senator Joe Gruters as a potential successor — ensuring that the committee remains in pro-Trump hands heading into the 2026 midterms.
The dual endorsements reflect Trump’s hands-on approach to shaping the future of the Republican Party and building a Senate majority that supports his America First agenda. With Democrats facing retirements and a tough electoral map, Trump’s political machine is already gearing up for another red wave — and this time, he’s making sure his top allies are front and center.