Concerns Rise Among Republicans Over Key Senate Races in North Carolina and Georgia

Some Republicans are expressing concerns that two key Senate races, previously deemed critical for maintaining their majority, may be slipping from their control. In interviews with campaign officials, senators, and operatives, there is acknowledgment that the races in North Carolina and Georgia appear less competitive than anticipated, prompting discussions about future investment in these campaigns. North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis emphasized the need for the party to make difficult decisions regarding spending, stating, "You spend the money where we get Republicans elected. I want them to do that now. I mean you don’t spend the money just because you want to help somebody." Republican strategist Karl Rove noted bluntly, "We’re not going to win either one," during a recent event in Austin, Texas. Candidates in both states, including Rep. Mike Collins, who is challenging Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff, and Michael Whatley, running against former Governor Roy Cooper in North Carolina, are trailing in polls and facing scrutiny about their campaigns. A loss in North Carolina could provide Democrats with one of the four flips needed to regain control of the Senate. The super PAC Old North Action recently reduced its ad reservations in North Carolina by about a third, indicating a potential loss of confidence in the race. Whatley expressed optimism about securing necessary funding despite the challenges. Collins' campaign has communicated the need for additional support, highlighting that 10% of voters remain undecided, primarily those who supported Trump in 2024. Senate Majority Leader John Thune acknowledged the challenges faced by candidates across the country, stating, "There are headwinds we are facing in all the races around the country." Despite the concerns, party leaders continue to signal commitment to the races in Georgia and North Carolina, with Thune attending a fundraiser for Collins and Trump and Vice President JD Vance visiting North Carolina. National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) Chairman Tim Scott rejected claims of deprioritizing these states, asserting that Collins and Whatley are making progress in closing polling gaps. However, some GOP members, including Texas Senator John Cornyn, have questioned the strategy of allocating funds to potentially unwinnable races, suggesting resources might be better spent elsewhere. Cornyn's recent fundraiser focused on candidates from other states, excluding Collins and Whatley, indicating a strategic shift in resource allocation. He remarked that if Tillis were on the ticket, the situation might be different but noted the impact of Trump's endorsement on the current candidates. Whatley, however, remains optimistic about his campaign's prospects.