GASTONIA, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS/AP) -- A major race is taking shape in North Carolina’s political landscape. Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley officially announced Thursday that he’s running for the U.S. Senate in 2026.

“I am running to be the next Senator from the great state of North Carolina," Whatley announced.

Whatley revealed his candidacy at an event in Gastonia, where he told a crowd of supporters that his campaign would focus on “North Carolina values.”

“Our campaign will be about North Carolina values, we will fight for a strong economy, safe communities, and an America that is respected around the world," he said.

“I will fight for policies that will create more jobs and higher wages, lower gasoline and grocery prices, and lower taxes for every family," he

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