With 100 days remaining until the midterm elections, a Fox News poll conducted July 23-27, 2026, reveals a competitive political landscape in North Carolina and across the country. The poll, which surveyed 1,005 registered North Carolina voters via landlines, cellphones, and online methods, shows Democrat Roy Cooper leading Republican Michael Whatley 53% to 44% in the race for the state's open Senate seat.

This lead is attributed largely to a significant enthusiasm gap: 51% of Democrats say they are extremely interested in the midterms compared to 42% of Republicans, and 58% of Democrats report being extremely motivated to vote versus 42% of Republicans. Among those extremely interested in the election, Cooper's lead widens to 15 points (57% to 42%), and among those extremely motivated to vote, it is 13 points (55% to 42%).

Cooper's advantage is supported by near-unanimous Democratic backing and strong support from independents. To close the gap, Whatley needs to improve his appeal among non-MAGA Republicans and less partisan voters in North Carolina.

Fox News' power rankings also highlight tight races nationwide, with four Senate seats and 16 House seats considered toss-ups, underscoring the competitive nature of the upcoming elections.

Recent data indicate that Republicans hold an average 3-point advantage in North Carolina statewide races, but the current enthusiasm gap may influence the Senate contest's outcome.

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