The “one big beautiful bill” championed by Donald Trump has indirectly led to a major political shake-up in North Carolina: Senator Thom Tillis will not seek re-election in 2026. Tillis’s vote against the bill prompted a furious backlash from the former president, including public insults and threats to support a primary challenger.
Tillis, in his retirement announcement, spoke of the challenging environment in Washington for politicians willing to compromise and think independently, admitting his waning interest in another term. His decision creates a highly competitive open Senate race in North Carolina, a state crucial to both parties’ national strategies.
The contentious “big beautiful bill” itself is a comprehensive package encompassing several key Republican priorities. It seeks to permanently extend tax cuts from Trump’s first presidency, remove taxes on tips, and allocate a staggering $175 billion to fortify immigration enforcement, including a controversial mass deportation project. These measures are designed to be partially funded by significant reductions in Medicaid and food stamp programs.
The incident underscores the continuing power of Donald Trump to influence Republican incumbents and shape the party’s direction. With Tillis out, the North Carolina Senate seat becomes a prime target for both parties, with speculation already rife about potential candidates, including Lara Trump and former Governor Roy Cooper.