Michael D. WhatleyMichael D. Whatley

Michael Whatley knows that the best way to lift up North Carolinians—to lift their wages, expand their opportunities, make the future brighter for their children—is through a growing economy fueled by free enterprise. Michael will support the policies that will drive economic growth and improve quality of life for North Carolinians.

Open seat

Michael Whatley has the business acumen and leadership experience to deliver real results for the people of North Carolina in the U.S. Senate. His commitment to an all-of-the-above energy strategy, meaningful tax reform, and sound fiscal policy reflects a clear vision for economic growth. By prioritizing regulatory reform and advocating for a leaner, more efficient government, Whatley stands ready to restore accountability in Washington and ensure North Carolinians keep more of their hard-earned income.

I was raised in Blowing Rock and am the son of an accountant and a librarian. I graduated from Watauga High School and went on to earn a History degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, a Master’s in Religion from Wake Forest University, and a Juris Doctorate (JD) from the University of Notre Dame. I began my career in public service as a federal law clerk in Charlotte and later served as Senator Elizabeth Dole’s Chief of Staff. Following President Trump’s historic 2016 victory, I was tapped to lead the Presidential Transition’s Energy, Environment, and Agriculture teams, overseeing development of the Administration’s Farm Plan and Energy Plan. These efforts helped deliver lower energy prices for families and businesses and contributed to a booming agricultural and rural economy. I previously had the honor of serving as Chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party and, at President Trump’s request, as Chairman of the Republican National Committee during the 2024 cycle. My wife, Suzanne, and I live in Gaston County. Our twin sons, Michael and George, attend Clemson and NC State. Our daughter, Mary Kate, attends UNC–Chapel Hill. I am proud to be President Trump’s endorsed candidate to represent the great state of North Carolina in the United States Senate.

Michael Whatley for a better North Carolina and a stronger America. More money in your pockets, safe communities, and a strong country. A better state where you can buy a home, raise a family and see your kids do better than you did – right here in the Old North State.