Cooper up big on Whatley as Trump approval sinks, WRAL/WSOC Poll shows

Key Points:

• Democrat Roy Cooper holds a 14-point lead over Republican Michael Whatley in North Carolina’s U.S. Senate race, according to a WRAL/WSOC poll, reflecting voter dissatisfaction with President Trump.
• Whatley, endorsed by Trump and campaigning on advancing Trump's agenda, has consistently trailed Cooper, who has also outpaced him in fundraising and polling this year.
• Trump’s declining approval ratings in North Carolina, with only 37% of likely voters approving his job performance, are seen as a factor hurting Whatley’s chances, especially as Trump’s policies have driven up prices on fuel and groceries.
• The poll indicates a favorable view of Democratic Governor Josh Stein, with 46% approval, contrasting with the 60% disapproval rating for Trump’s presidency among likely voters.
• Political analysts note that North Carolina’s traditionally close federal races are unusually favoring Democrats this cycle, partly due to the national environment and Trump’s unpopularity, while early voting has just begun ahead of the November 3 election.