A new Fox News poll shows former Democratic Governor Roy Cooper leading Republican Michael Whatley by 9 percentage points in North Carolina's closely watched Senate race. Cooper holds a 53% to 44% advantage over Whatley, who is the former Republican National Committee chairman. The poll also reveals a significant enthusiasm gap, with 51% of Democrats saying they are "extremely interested" in the election compared to 42% of Republicans.
Cooper's lead expands among highly engaged voters, reaching 15 points (57% to 42%) among those extremely interested in the election and 13 points (55% to 42%) among those extremely motivated to vote. Among voters certain to vote, Cooper maintains a 9-point lead (53% to 44%).
Demographic breakdowns show Cooper leading among moderates, voters under 30, independents, college-educated voters, and women, while Whatley performs best among very conservative voters, White evangelical Christians, White voters without a college degree, and rural voters. Additionally, 84% of Cooper supporters say they are voting for him, while 52% of Whatley supporters are voting for him and 46% against Cooper. Both candidates have strong commitment from their bases, with 81% of Cooper backers and 77% of Whatley supporters certain to vote for their candidate. However, one in five voters remain open to changing their pick.
The race is shaping up as a critical contest in the battle for Senate control, with retiring Republican Senator Thom Tillis leaving an open seat.