06/05/2026
Whatley enthusiastically endorsed by the NC Sheriff Police Alliance for the NC Senate seat. They openly oppose former Governor Roy Cooper as a dangerous candidate, criticizing his time as Attorney General and later as NC Governor. Their public statement:
"Roy Cooper's failure to protect the North Carolina residents throughout his tenure as the NC Attorney General and Governor has cost him the the endorsement of the Major police organizations here in NC.
In the 2026 U.S. Senate race, key law enforcement groups (NC Troopers' Association, Charlotte-Mecklenburg FOP, several county sheriffs, and the North Carolina Sheriff Police Alliance) endorsed his Republican opponent Michael Whatley, explicitly citing Cooper’s prison releases, criminal justice policies, and failure to back officers on immigration/public safety.
Cooper’s office and supporters highlighted his condemnations of violence against officers, increased funding/resources in budgets, and mental health support for law enforcement. However, “street-level” and union support shifted strongly against him over time, particularly among those prioritizing strict enforcement and immigration cooperation.
These points reflect partisan debates—Cooper’s marked by mismanagement and weakened public safety. As of 2026, these issues remain central to attacks on his Senate bid. Law enforcement with the exception of certain Democrat Sheriffs supporting Cooper by way of Political partisanship."
