A recent poll conducted by the East Carolina University Center for Survey Research shows Democratic nominee Roy Cooper leading Republican nominee Michael Whatley by 7 percentage points in North Carolina’s U.S. Senate election. The survey, conducted from August 31 to September 3, found Cooper with 46% support among likely voters compared to Whatley’s 39%, with 14% undecided and the remainder backing a minor-party or write-in candidate. When undecided voters are forced to choose, Cooper’s lead expands to 52% to 44%. The poll’s credibility interval is plus or minus 4.4 percentage points.
The economy emerges as the dominant issue for likely voters, with 43% identifying it as their top concern. Among this group, Cooper holds a substantial advantage, leading Whatley 58% to 25%. This gap suggests that voters trust the Democratic candidate more on economic matters, a critical dynamic in a state where economic concerns often drive electoral outcomes.
Likely voters also hold more defined and favorable views of Cooper than of Whatley. Cooper’s favorability stands at 47% favorable and 40% unfavorable, while Whatley is viewed favorably by 33%, unfavorably by 34%, and about one-third of voters are unsure or unfamiliar with him. This disparity in name recognition and favorability could prove pivotal as the campaign progresses, particularly if Whatley struggles to introduce himself to a broader electorate.
The ECU Center for Survey Research, which directed the poll, is a member of the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) Transparency Initiative. For additional information about the ECU Poll and its methodology, please refer to the documentation provided in the TI report. The full announcement, including downloadable images, bios, and more, can be viewed here.
This poll’s findings are significant because they indicate a clear early advantage for Cooper in a key battleground state. North Carolina is one of the most competitive Senate races in the country, and the outcome could determine control of the U.S. Senate. With the economy as the top issue, Cooper’s strong performance among economy-focused voters and his higher favorability ratings suggest he enters the general election campaign in a stronger position than Whatley. The large share of undecided voters, however, means the race remains fluid, and Whatley has room to gain ground if he can improve his visibility and persuade voters on economic issues.
The ECU Poll was conducted by the East Carolina University Center for Survey Research, which is based in Greenville, North Carolina. The survey included likely voters and provides a snapshot of the race at this stage. As the campaign continues, both candidates will likely focus on mobilizing their bases and appealing to the undecided voters who could ultimately decide the election.
