Donald Trump can certainly make long statements when he’s in the mood. Sometimes, however, he can also sum up things quite succinctly, as he showed Sunday with his Truth Social post regarding North Carolina GOP Sen. Thom Tillis’ announcement that he will not seek another term.
“Great News!” the president wrote:
Donald J. Trump Truth Social 06.29.25 05:19 AM EST
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Posts From Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) June 29, 2025
Great News! “Senator” Thom Tillis will not be seeking reelection.
He followed up with a message to other Republicans who act against the One Big Beautiful Bill, which is currently being debated in the Senate for a possible vote Monday.
Donald J. Trump Truth Social 06.29.25 05:27 PM EST
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Posts From Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) June 29, 2025
For all cost cutting Republicans, of which I am one, REMEMBER, you still have to get reelected. Don’t go too crazy! We will make it all up, times 10, with GROWTH, more than ever before
For all cost cutting Republicans, of which I am one, REMEMBER, you still have to get reelected. Don’t go too crazy! We will make it all up, times 10, with GROWTH, more than ever before
As we reported, Tillis earned the wrath of the president by coming out against the giant tax and budget measure. He was a “no” vote on advancing the bill Saturday and indicated that he would not vote for it if it came to the floor; his opposition was mostly against possible Medicaid cuts.
Trump unloaded on him on social media and said he would look to have the senator primaried. There’s no need for that now, however, as Tillis formally announced Sunday that he’s done:
More: Trump Comes Out Swinging Against BBB Opponent Thom Tillis
New: GOP Senator Thom Tillis Won't Seek Reelection in 2026
As RedState’s Ward Clark reported, Tillis faced a tough road if he decided to continue:
Why it matters: Tillis faced a brutal fight to keep his seat, both in the general election and with the potential of Trump-backed primary challengers.
- "It's not a hard choice, and I will not be seeking re-election," Tillis said in a statement announcing his plans.
- He was first elected to the Senate in 2014.
RedState’s Joe Cunningham argued earlier Sunday that although the OBBB is far from perfect, it would be a massive error by the GOP if they fail to pass it.
Why the One Big Beautiful Bill Must Pass—Despite Its Ugly Parts
Trump’s reaction was not just a slam on Tillis for opposing the bill; it was also a warning to others in the Republican party who might be thinking about defecting. Do that, Trump seemed to be saying, and I’ll be coming for your seat too.
Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk isn't sad to see Tillis go either:
Thom Tillis routinely fought to increase American intervention abroad while rejecting border security at home. He has also been a chief obstacle to the timely confirmation of President Trump’s nominees.
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) June 29, 2025
His retirement is a golden opportunity to make North Carolina’s senators… pic.twitter.com/lrFL9Vaz5E
His retirement is a golden opportunity to make North Carolina’s senators reflect the priorities of North Carolina’s Republican voters.
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