Former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper’s Senate campaign has reported spending over $250,000 on private security, according to federal records. The total amount spent on security-related payments during the 2026 election cycle is $277,312.28, with funds allocated to two vendors: Foresight Solutions and Frontpoint. Foresight Solutions provides security assessments and workplace safety training, while Frontpoint specializes in home-security systems.
This expenditure has prompted Republican criticism, with accusations that Cooper's policies contribute to a perception of decreased safety among North Carolinians. GOP members have highlighted Cooper's record on policing and criminal justice reform, including his decisions regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement cooperation and inmate releases during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Republican strategist Mark Bednar criticized Cooper's spending as hypocritical, stating that it reflects a disconnect between the former governor's personal security measures and his policies perceived as lenient on crime. In response, a spokesperson for Cooper defended his public safety record and accused his Republican opponent, Michael Whatley, of hypocrisy, citing Whatley's past appointments and actions regarding criminal justice.
The Cooper campaign also emphasized the former governor's tenure as North Carolina attorney general and his legislative efforts aimed at enhancing law enforcement capabilities and addressing drug-related crimes. Whatley's spokesperson countered by asserting that Cooper's decisions have led to negative consequences for public safety in North Carolina.