Lara Trump, daughter-in-law to President Trump and former RNC co-chair, recently spoke with Breitbart News Editor-in-Chief Alex Marlow about potentially running for Sen. Thom Tillis’s open North Carolina seat. Tillis, who announced he won’t seek reelection, drew criticism from Lara as being “very establishment‑y” and “RINO‑esque”—a tone that signals growing impatience among conservatives for true America First leadership.
“You know, it kind of seems like he wants to go against the grain, just to say he’s going against the grain,” Lara said of Tillis. It’s a clear message: North Carolina voters expect alignment with Trump-era values—not voting loyalties with Democrats. Trump loyalists claim this shift echoes a broader refrain seen since the “Big Beautiful Bill” controversy and Ed Martin’s blocked nomination—moments where Tillis sided with the establishment over conservative priorities.
Lara confirmed she’s “truly” considering a run after enticing calls—including from the White House. She said, “This is the third time that I will have truly considered … in the past 48 hours. … If this keeps coming up, maybe there’s something to it.” Her staunch support for Trump’s agenda, combined with deep local roots in Wilmington and a pulse on grassroots conservatives, positions her as a natural candidate who resonates with hardworking North Carolinians.
Conservative outlets like The Daily Wire have highlighted that North Carolina voters have repeatedly backed Trump—not just once, but three times. This consistent support demands representation that reflects those values in Washington, not mixed messages from establishment senators. National Review also notes that the one-time America First surge is less likely to be a flash in the pan and more a movement demanding long-term legislative impact.
Lara isn’t diving in blindly—she’s weighing timing carefully. In 2026, launching a campaign with young children at home means balancing family and public service. Drawing on a sentiment echoed by family life advocates, she said candidates must ask,“Do you want to drag other members of your family into it?” Her consideration reflects traditional values—strong family first, even in high-stakes politics.
Polling insiders and Politico report that President Trump supports Lara’s potential candidacy and that RNC Chair Michael Whatley is holding off to give her first shot. “The field is gonna be frozen,” one source told Politico. Lara herself affirmed they need Whatley leading the RNC—yet hinted she’s ready to run if all fits.
North Carolina isn’t just another state. It’s a battleground with deep roots in conservative, America First sentiment. With Tillis stepping aside, the seat could define whether national security, fiscal responsibility, and limited-government values thrive—or falter—in 2026 and beyond.
Lara Trump’s emerging candidacy isn’t just about one seat—it’s a conservative check on RINO drift, a nod to voters who backed Trump repeatedly, and proof that America First isn’t a moment—it’s a mission.
