Leading into the final stretch before the 2026 midterm elections, President Donald Trump stumped for North Carolina Republican candidates in competitive races. He endorsed U.S. Senate candidate and former Republican National Committee chair Michael Whatley, and U.S. House candidates Jennifer Balkcom and Laurie Buckhout. The Cook Political Report rated the Senate race "Likely Democrat" and both House races a "Toss-Up," while Inside Elections rated the Senate race "Lean Democrat" and the House races a "Toss-Up." Whatley would face Democrat former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper in the November 3, 2026, general election. Balkcom faced Democrat Jamie Ager in the race to replace Rep. Chuck Edwards (R), who dropped out due to allegations of inappropriate behavior with female staff members, and Buckhout faced incumbent Rep. Don Davis (D).