Sen. Thom Tillis’ decision not to seek reelection is jolting what was already expected to be a fierce battle for his seat, which will now be wide open in 2026.

Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina says he won't seek reelection. That news Sunday comes one day after he announced his opposition to President Donald Trump’s tax breaks and spending cuts package because of its reductions to health care programs.

The passage of President Donald Trump’s $4.5 trillion tax breaks and spending cuts bill in the United States House Thursday prompted various reactions from lawmakers and officials in North