Sen. Thom Tillis won't run for reelection in 2026
Why it matters: Tillis faced a brutal fight to keep his seat, both in the general election and with the potential of Trump-backed primary challengers.
"It's not a hard choice, and I will not be seeking re-election," Tillis said in a statement announcing his plans.
He was first elected to the Senate in 2014.
Zoom in: Tillis voted against starting debate Saturday night on the " big, beautiful bill," and told lawmakers he'd also oppose the final version over its cuts to Medicaid.
In response, President Trump said he'd meet with Tillis's challengers and accused the North Carolinian of grandstanding.
What to watch: There's a large pool of potential GOP candidates for Tillis' seat, including RNC Chair Michael Whatley and RNC vice chair Lara Trump.
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