Vice President JD Vance plans to campaign in Greensboro for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley, with doors opening at 9 a.m. and the rally set to begin at 11 a.m. at the Koury Convention Center. The visit comes as Whatley trails former Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper in North Carolina's open Senate race.
Vance is scheduled to appear at the Koury Convention Center, located at 3121 W Gate City Boulevard in Greensboro, according to WFMY News 2. The station reports doors are scheduled to open at 9 a.m., with the rally set to begin at 11 a.m. Attendees must sign up in advance to attend, per ABC11.
The rally is meant to boost Whatley, who is facing what ABC11 describes as a closely watched race against Cooper for North Carolina's open U.S. Senate seat. Whatley welcomed Vance's visit in a social media post, saying President Trump needs an ally in the Senate and North Carolina needs a fighter, according to the News & Observer. The race is for Republican Sen. Thom Tillis's seat, and the winner of the Nov. 3 election will succeed him, per WLOS.
Cooper Leads in the Polls
Republicans are trying to retain control of the seat in a closely watched race against Cooper.
An Elon University poll from Sept. 10 showed Cooper ahead 49% to 38%.
Trump's Own Recent Swing Through the State
Vance's trip follows Trump's own visit to North Carolina days earlier. Trump held a rally at Gastonia Municipal Airport last Wednesday, also campaigning for Whatley against Cooper, according to the Charlotte Observer. Trump formally endorsed Whatley for the seat back in July 2025, per WLOS.
A Broader Push for North Carolina Republicans
Vance's trip comes amid Republican campaign activity in North Carolina.
Vance's visit comes a week after Trump's own stop in the state, ABC11 notes.
