Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican from North Carolina, expressed concerns that President Donald Trump's actions are negatively affecting the GOP's chances in the upcoming elections. Tillis stated that Trump's decisions are 'killing our chances' for maintaining power in the Senate. This criticism follows a history of tension between Tillis and Trump, which began during efforts to pass significant legislation last year.
On Friday, Trump referred to Tillis as a 'nitpicker' on social media after Tillis announced he would not endorse Trump for another term. Trump claimed that Tillis quit the race and announced his retirement after their disagreement. Tillis has continued to voice his criticisms of Trump and his administration, attributing various issues to Trump's advisors and policies.
In a statement, White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales defended Trump, asserting that he remains a strong leader for the Republican Party and is focused on maintaining their majority in Congress. Despite this, many Republicans have expressed discomfort with some of Trump's recent decisions, including a controversial fund established by the Department of Justice, which Tillis and others believe could be misused.
Tillis remarked, 'If opposing these things makes me a RINO, then I gladly accept that nickname,' emphasizing the need for Republicans to perform well in the upcoming elections while criticizing what he termed 'stupid stuff' that could harm their prospects.