In a political climate filled with tension, power plays, and endless debates, one U.S. senator is stepping away from it all — not because he’s been pushed out, but because he’s choosing peace and family instead.
Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina has revealed that he will not be seeking another term in office.
The decision means he’ll be bowing out ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Tillis made his announcement on Sunday through a statement shared by his team.
No More Interest in Washington’s Political Theatre
Tillis didn’t hold back in explaining why he’s stepping down.
He admitted that over the past year, even his colleagues noticed his lack of enthusiasm for launching another campaign — something they occasionally joked about.
He wrote, “That’s true.
The choice is between another six years stuck in the exhausting political theatre of Washington or spending quality time with Susan — the love of my life — our kids, our three beautiful grandkids, and our extended family back home.
For me, it’s not a tough call.”
A Falling Out With Trump Over the Budget
Interestingly, Tillis’s announcement came on the same day that he found himself in former President Donald Trump’s crosshairs.
The reason? His vote against Trump’s high-profile budget bill that’s currently under debate in the Senate.
Tillis was one of just two Republican senators who voted against the motion to advance the budget plan on Saturday night. The other was Senator Rand Paul from Kentucky.
Trump Blasts Tillis on Social Media
As expected, Trump responded — and he did it loud and clear.
On his platform, Truth Social, the former president launched into a scathing rant against Tillis, accusing him of failing the people of North Carolina.
“Thom Tillis has hurt the great people of North Carolina,” Trump wrote.
“Even during the disastrous flooding, nothing was done until I came into office. Then — a miracle!
Tillis is all talk and complaints. Not a doer. He’s worse than Rand ‘Fauci’ Paul!”
Tillis Takes a Stand on Medicaid Cuts
Beyond the political drama, Tillis’s opposition to the budget bill was rooted in concern for his state.
He warned that the bill’s massive cuts to Medicaid could have devastating effects.
According to Tillis, North Carolina stood to lose nearly $39 billion in Medicaid funding, potentially affecting over 600,000 residents.
While many Republicans saw the Medicaid cuts as a way to fund Trump’s policy initiatives — like the proposed $150 billion boost for border security — Tillis wasn’t willing to get on board at the expense of healthcare access for his constituents.
What’s Next for Tillis?
With his decision made, Tillis is expected to serve out his current term while gradually stepping away from the national spotlight.
While his departure leaves a Senate seat open in one of the country’s most important swing states, for now, it seems Tillis is looking forward to a quieter life centered on family — and far from Washington’s chaos.
As for the political ripple effects of his choice and the ongoing budget fight, the drama is far from over.