Midterm Elections 2026: Dems flip North Carolina Senate seat as Cooper defeats Trump-picked Whatley

A major breakthrough for Democrats in the battle for control of the US Senate! Democrats have flipped a Republican-held Senate seat in North Carolina, with former Governor Roy Cooper defeating Republican Michael Whatley. This is the first major pickup for Democrats among the nine Senate races called so far, giving the party an important boost in its uphill battle to reclaim the Senate. Remember, Republicans entered the 2026 midterms with a 53-to-47 majority. Democrats need to flip four seats to secure control. And while eight other Senate races have also been called in favour of Democratic candidates, North Carolina is the result that stands out. Let's take a look at all nine results.