Senator Thom Tillis to Retire After Opposing Trump's Budget Bill

President Donald Trump praised North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis's decision not to seek re-election in 2026 following Tillis's opposition to Trump's 'big, beautiful' budget bill currently under Senate consideration. Trump criticized Tillis on Truth Social, calling him a 'talker and complainer,' and accused him of failing the people of North Carolina, especially during catastrophic flooding, while warning other Republican dissenters that they would face voter backlash if they opposed the bill. Tillis, who voted against advancing the legislation along with Senator Rand Paul, stated he was stepping down to avoid further political gridlock and spend more time with his family. The budget bill, known as the 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' aims to fast-track many of Trump's key campaign promises but has faced significant opposition and a narrow Senate vote. Trump also indicated he might support a primary challenger against Tillis, emphasizing the importance of loyalty to his agenda within the GOP. Political analysts noted that breaking ranks with Trump could cost Republican lawmakers support among the party base.