# What will Roy Cooper say during The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell?

Roy Cooper - The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell on Sep 16, 2026

Updated: September 17, 2026

Category: Mentions

Tags: Politicians

HTML: /markets/mentions/politicians/what-will-roy-cooper-say-during-the-last-word-with-lawrence-o-donnell/

## Short Answer

**Key takeaway.** Roy Cooper is expected to mention "Republican" during his September 16, 2026 interview on The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell, with the **market** pricing this outcome at **99.0%**.

## Key Claims (September 2026)

**- - Roy Cooper is reported to have stated North Carolina needs a senator to oppose Trump.** - Cooper's legacy of expanding Medicaid makes 'Healthcare' a probable topic for discussion.
- Cooper's campaign rhetoric often targets opponent Michael Whatley on issues like tariffs.

## Market Behavior & Drivers

Roy Cooper's 2026 U.S. Senate campaign against Michael Whatley, leveraging national media for party signaling, leaves specific mentions at **1%** **market** **probability**.

The market price collapsed after Roy Cooper's September 16, 2026, appearance on "The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell." Probabilities fell from 54.0% to 1.0% the following day on heavy volume. The drop was driven by the content of Cooper's statement. While he criticized Donald Trump, his words—"North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump"—apparently did not satisfy the specific terms required for a "YES" resolution. The market commentary suggests traders had anticipated a more direct mention of the word "Election," and its absence triggered the sell-off.

The initial 54.0% price on the day of the broadcast reflected an expectation that Cooper would use the national platform to make a specific type of statement. This was in the context of a competitive U.S. Senate race in North Carolina against a Trump-supported opponent, Michael Whatley. The swift and decisive price move to near-zero shows the market's immediate judgment that Cooper's remarks, once public, failed to meet the threshold.

### Who Wins and Why

| Outcome | Market | Model | Why |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Afford / Affordable / Affordability | 1.0% | 0.3% | Specific terms for affordability may be less directly used by Cooper. |
| Election | 1.0% | 0.3% | The specific term 'Election' may not be a primary focus of his remarks. |
| Medicaid / Medicare | 1.0% | 0.2% | Cooper may use broader terms instead of specific programs like Medicaid. |

## Model vs Market

| Outcome | Market Probability | Octagon Model Probability |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Afford / Affordable / Affordability | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Election | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Medicaid / Medicare | 1.0% | 0.2% |

- Expiration: September 30, 2026

## Significant Price Movements

#### 📉 September 17, 2026: 74.0pp drop

Price decreased from 75.0% to 1.0%

**Outcome:** Election

**What happened:** The primary driver for the 74.0 percentage point drop appears to be a significant shift in market expectations regarding the *directness* of Roy Cooper's "Election" mention. Although Cooper stated on September 17, 2026, on "The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell," that "North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Donald Trump" – a clear reference to his U.S. Senate campaign [[1]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914) – this may have been perceived as less explicit than the market initially priced. This re-evaluation was likely spurred by President Donald Trump's strong criticisms of Cooper the day prior, which, while traditional news, likely generated widespread social media narratives speculating Cooper would focus on refuting attacks rather than a direct "Election" mention [[2]](https://www.newsweek.com/trump-says-north-carolina-one-of-the-worst-on-crime-what-data-shows-12453308). Social media served as a contributing accelerant, amplifying these altered expectations and *leading* the market's massive price correction.

Sources:

1. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)
2. [In North Carolina, Trump Says State 'One of the Worst' on Crime: What Data Shows - Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/trump-says-north-carolina-one-of-the-worst-on-crime-what-data-shows-12453308)

## Contract Snapshot

This Kalshi prediction market resolves based on whether Roy Cooper says specific words or phrases, such as "Afford," "Affordable," or "Affordability," during "The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell." A "Yes" outcome triggers if the specified word(s) are spoken during the broadcast, otherwise a "No" outcome is triggered. The maximum payout for this market is set for September 30, 2026.

## Market Discussion

Prediction markets reflect public interest in what Roy Cooper may say during potential appearances on "The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell" [[1]](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxlastwordmention/last-word/kxlastwordmention-26aug26)[[2]](https://www.coinbase.com/predictions/event/KXLASTWORDMENTION-26AUG26)[[3]](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxlastwordmention/last-word/kxlastwordmention-26sep16)[[4]](https://www.coinbase.com/fr-ca/predictions/event/KXLASTWORDMENTION-26AUG26). Although previous reporting notes Cooper stating on September 17, 2026, that North Carolina needs a senator to stand up to Donald Trump [[5]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[6]](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513), there is no record of a scheduled appearance for him on the show for that date [[7]](https://www.c-span.org/person/roy-cooper/26260/). Cooper is actively campaigning as a Democratic candidate for a U.S. Senate seat in North Carolina, a campaign marked by criticism from Donald Trump regarding his gubernatorial record [[8]](https://www.wbtv.com/2026/09/17/trump-whatley-double-down-administrations-record-north-carolina-senate-contest/)[[9]](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-09-17/trump-returns-to-trail-in-north-carolina-with-senate-on-the-line)[[10]](https://www.cnn.com/2026/09/17/politics/north-carolina-senate-midterms-voting-rules-election-integrity)[[11]](https://www.newsweek.com/trump-says-north-carolina-one-of-the-worst-on-crime-what-data-shows-12453308)[[12]](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/trump-north-carolina-speech-fema-money_n_6aab479de4b00c07b744a29a)[[13]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-d-nc-holds-campaign-event-in-concord-nc/684753)[[14]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/north-carolina-democratic-us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-holds-campaign-event/682742)[[15]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/north-carolina-democratic-us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-speaks-to-reporters/682793)[[16]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-holds-news-conference/682654)[[17]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/senate-candidate-roy-cooper-d-nc-speak-to-reporters-in-concord-north-carolina/684759).

Sources:

1. [What will Roy Cooper say during The Last Word With Lawrence O...](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxlastwordmention/last-word/kxlastwordmention-26aug26)
2. [What will Roy Cooper say during The Last Word With Lawrence O...](https://www.coinbase.com/predictions/event/KXLASTWORDMENTION-26AUG26)
3. [What will Roy Cooper say during The Last Word with Lawrence O...](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxlastwordmention/last-word/kxlastwordmention-26sep16)
4. [What will Roy Cooper say during The Last Word With Lawrence O...](https://www.coinbase.com/fr-ca/predictions/event/KXLASTWORDMENTION-26AUG26)
5. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)
6. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513)
7. [Roy Cooper | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/person/roy-cooper/26260/)
8. [Trump and Whatley double down on the administration’s record in North Carolina Senate contest](https://www.wbtv.com/2026/09/17/trump-whatley-double-down-administrations-record-north-carolina-senate-contest/)
9. [Trump Returns to Trail in North Carolina With Senate on the Line - Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-09-17/trump-returns-to-trail-in-north-carolina-with-senate-on-the-line)
10. [How the Republican push to change voting rules in a key state could hurt Democrats in the midterms | CNN Politics](https://www.cnn.com/2026/09/17/politics/north-carolina-senate-midterms-voting-rules-election-integrity)
11. [In North Carolina, Trump Says State 'One of the Worst' on Crime: What Data Shows - Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/trump-says-north-carolina-one-of-the-worst-on-crime-what-data-shows-12453308)
12. [Trump Makes Ugly New Threat About What He'll Do If His Candidate Loses | HuffPost Latest News](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/trump-north-carolina-speech-fema-money_n_6aab479de4b00c07b744a29a)
13. [U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper (D-NC) Holds Campaign Event in Concord, NC | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-d-nc-holds-campaign-event-in-concord-nc/684753)
14. [North Carolina Democratic U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper Holds Campaign Event | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/north-carolina-democratic-us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-holds-campaign-event/682742)
15. [North Carolina Democratic U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper Speaks to Reporters | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/north-carolina-democratic-us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-speaks-to-reporters/682793)
16. [U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper Holds News Conference | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-holds-news-conference/682654)
17. [Senate Candidate Roy Cooper (D-NC) Speak to Reporters in Concord, North Carolina | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/senate-candidate-roy-cooper-d-nc-speak-to-reporters-in-concord-north-carolina/684759)

## Market Data

| Contract | Yes Bid | Yes Ask | Last Price | Volume | Open Interest |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Afford / Affordable / Affordability | 0% | 1% | 1% | 6,669 contracts | 6,234 contracts |
| Election | 0% | 1% | 1% | 2,897 contracts | 2,672 contracts |
| Medicaid / Medicare | 0% | 1% | 1% | 1,296 contracts | 1,230 contracts |

## How might Donald Trump's campaign activities in North Carolina before September 2026 influence Roy Cooper's choice of topics on 'The Last Word'?

Trump campaign influence timeframe | Before September 2026 [[1]](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-bashes-democrats-crime-michael-whatley-senate-north-carolina-rcna598110)[[2]](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-09-17/trump-returns-to-trail-in-north-carolina-with-senate-on-the-line)[[3]](https://abcnews.com/Politics/trump-stumps-senate-candidate-north-carolina-republicans-fear/story?id=136495520)[[4]](https://www.wbtv.com/2026/09/17/trump-whatley-double-down-administrations-record-north-carolina-senate-contest/) |
Date of key events | September 16, 2026 [[1]](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-bashes-democrats-crime-michael-whatley-senate-north-carolina-rcna598110)[[2]](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-09-17/trump-returns-to-trail-in-north-carolina-with-senate-on-the-line)[[3]](https://abcnews.com/Politics/trump-stumps-senate-candidate-north-carolina-republicans-fear/story?id=136495520)[[5]](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/sep/16/trump-north-carolina-campaign-rally-republicans) |
Roy Cooper's statement | North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump [[6]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[7]](https://caessqeb6zswfqowdlnvqqdqmaodag9u5zjvnlrqi9xc8ghvjjsrkothjinqwcsvl8hzxfjhumuvajnomuztekag1pchfeedzl86y4v_zwhuswkzfbovd0q0tapy5-96z_yy7k15aqcn0ssyywlxfxafa6qf2ohhfwlw-xpsp_yt7q2takdnnf9unlkrrnqmnpqav8vqaz30vshcgzsdqgvngpc1dnjn3cjmf3wl609udvtnvjq/)[[8]](https://caeswahrozavucvxnvvjd7gas4uz8eb0ga_gpyck3xr7h-2kjebmbfjoxzwuqwrqxzqfmwlgg9xvtkb8vxrx4lfab3p0jrw-kilwxmdu_8sd3tnwgurkiitndqs/) |

**Donald Trump's campaign generated a tense political atmosphere in North Carolina**

Donald Trump's campaign generated a tense political atmosphere in North Carolina. Before September 2026, Donald Trump's campaign activities created a highly tense political environment, with Trump framing the upcoming election as a referendum on his second-term policies [[1]](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-bashes-democrats-crime-michael-whatley-senate-north-carolina-rcna598110)[[2]](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-09-17/trump-returns-to-trail-in-north-carolina-with-senate-on-the-line)[[3]](https://abcnews.com/Politics/trump-stumps-senate-candidate-north-carolina-republicans-fear/story?id=136495520)[[4]](https://www.wbtv.com/2026/09/17/trump-whatley-double-down-administrations-record-north-carolina-senate-contest/). This politically charged context likely guided Roy Cooper's selection of topics for his appearance on 'The Last Word', as he aimed to differentiate himself from the national Republican agenda and present himself as an independent voice [[1]](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-bashes-democrats-crime-michael-whatley-senate-north-carolina-rcna598110)[[2]](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-09-17/trump-returns-to-trail-in-north-carolina-with-senate-on-the-line)[[3]](https://abcnews.com/Politics/trump-stumps-senate-candidate-north-carolina-republicans-fear/story?id=136495520)[[4]](https://www.wbtv.com/2026/09/17/trump-whatley-double-down-administrations-record-north-carolina-senate-contest/).

A Trump rally directly influenced Roy Cooper's televised remarks. Cooper's messaging was further shaped by Donald Trump's campaign rally in Gastonia, North Carolina, held on September 16, 2026, which occurred concurrently with Cooper's appearance on 'The Last Word' [[1]](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-bashes-democrats-crime-michael-whatley-senate-north-carolina-rcna598110)[[2]](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-09-17/trump-returns-to-trail-in-north-carolina-with-senate-on-the-line)[[3]](https://abcnews.com/Politics/trump-stumps-senate-candidate-north-carolina-republicans-fear/story?id=136495520)[[5]](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/sep/16/trump-north-carolina-campaign-rally-republicans). During this rally, Trump specifically criticized Cooper on key issues such as crime and the economy [[1]](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-bashes-democrats-crime-michael-whatley-senate-north-carolina-rcna598110)[[2]](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-09-17/trump-returns-to-trail-in-north-carolina-with-senate-on-the-line)[[3]](https://abcnews.com/Politics/trump-stumps-senate-candidate-north-carolina-republicans-fear/story?id=136495520)[[5]](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/sep/16/trump-north-carolina-campaign-rally-republicans). Consequently, Roy Cooper explicitly stated on 'The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell' on September 16, 2026, that 'North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump' [[6]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[7]](https://caessqeb6zswfqowdlnvqqdqmaodag9u5zjvnlrqi9xc8ghvjjsrkothjinqwcsvl8hzxfjhumuvajnomuztekag1pchfeedzl86y4v_zwhuswkzfbovd0q0tapy5-96z_yy7k15aqcn0ssyywlxfxafa6qf2ohhfwlw-xpsp_yt7q2takdnnf9unlkrrnqmnpqav8vqaz30vshcgzsdqgvngpc1dnjn3cjmf3wl609udvtnvjq/)[[8]](https://caeswahrozavucvxnvvjd7gas4uz8eb0ga_gpyck3xr7h-2kjebmbfjoxzwuqwrqxzqfmwlgg9xvtkb8vxrx4lfab3p0jrw-kilwxmdu_8sd3tnwgurkiitndqs/).

Sources:

1. [Trump bashes Democrats on crime in campaigning for Michael Whatley in North Carolina](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-bashes-democrats-crime-michael-whatley-senate-north-carolina-rcna598110)
2. [Trump Returns to Trail in North Carolina With Senate on the Line - Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-09-17/trump-returns-to-trail-in-north-carolina-with-senate-on-the-line)
3. [Trump stumps for Senate candidate in North Carolina as Republicans fear losing the seat - ABC News](https://abcnews.com/Politics/trump-stumps-senate-candidate-north-carolina-republicans-fear/story?id=136495520)
4. [Trump and Whatley double down on the administration’s record in North Carolina Senate contest](https://www.wbtv.com/2026/09/17/trump-whatley-double-down-administrations-record-north-carolina-senate-contest/)
5. [‘Pretend I’m on the ticket’: Trump hits campaign trail in bid to boost Republican hopes | Donald Trump | The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/sep/16/trump-north-carolina-campaign-rally-republicans)
6. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)
7. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to...](https://caessqeb6zswfqowdlnvqqdqmaodag9u5zjvnlrqi9xc8ghvjjsrkothjinqwcsvl8hzxfjhumuvajnomuztekag1pchfeedzl86y4v_zwhuswkzfbovd0q0tapy5-96z_yy7k15aqcn0ssyywlxfxafa6qf2ohhfwlw-xpsp_yt7q2takdnnf9unlkrrnqmnpqav8vqaz30vshcgzsdqgvngpc1dnjn3cjmf3wl609udvtnvjq/)
8. [The Last Word - MS NOW](https://caeswahrozavucvxnvvjd7gas4uz8eb0ga_gpyck3xr7h-2kjebmbfjoxzwuqwrqxzqfmwlgg9xvtkb8vxrx4lfab3p0jrw-kilwxmdu_8sd3tnwgurkiitndqs/)

## What is Roy Cooper's public record and messaging history on 'Healthcare' and 'Medicaid' during his tenure as Governor and his 2026 Senate campaign?

Medicaid Expansion Signed | March 2023 [[1]](https://www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2024/12/05/cooper-health-care-legacy/)[[2]](https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-medicaid-expansion-roy-cooper-legislature-f00242e5883bccf816a679a76584a5f9)[[3]](https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2024/12/04/healthier-north-carolina-governor-cooper-celebrates-nearly-600000-enrolled-medicaid-expansion-and) |
North Carolinians Covered by Medicaid Expansion | Nearly 600,000 [[3]](https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2024/12/04/healthier-north-carolina-governor-cooper-celebrates-nearly-600000-enrolled-medicaid-expansion-and) |
Gubernatorial Tenure | 2017-2025 [[4]](https://ballotpedia.org/Medicaid_spending_in_North_Carolina) |

**Governor Roy Cooper cemented his legacy by successfully expanding Medicaid in North Carolina**

Governor Roy Cooper cemented his legacy by successfully expanding Medicaid in North Carolina. This initiative, signed into law in March 2023, eventually provided coverage to nearly 600,000 North Carolinians [[1]](https://www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2024/12/05/cooper-health-care-legacy/)[[2]](https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-medicaid-expansion-roy-cooper-legislature-f00242e5883bccf816a679a76584a5f9)[[3]](https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2024/12/04/healthier-north-carolina-governor-cooper-celebrates-nearly-600000-enrolled-medicaid-expansion-and). Throughout his tenure as Governor from 2017 to 2025, Cooper consistently championed Medicaid expansion, articulating its importance for increasing access to health insurance, bolstering rural hospitals, and stimulating the economy without necessitating state tax increases [[4]](https://ballotpedia.org/Medicaid_spending_in_North_Carolina)[[5]](https://ballotpedia.org/Roy_Cooper)[[6]](https://ballotpedia.org/North_Carolina_gubernatorial_election,_2020). This achievement represents a decade-long commitment to improving healthcare access in the state [[1]](https://www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2024/12/05/cooper-health-care-legacy/).

Cooper's Senate campaign highlights his record and aims to lower healthcare costs. For his 2026 U.S. Senate campaign, he specifically emphasizes his gubernatorial record of bipartisan success in expanding Medicaid. He frames this accomplishment as evidence of his capacity to "put people before politics" and collaborate across political divides [[5]](https://ballotpedia.org/Roy_Cooper)[[7]](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026)[[8]](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026_(March_3_Democratic_primary)). His campaign messaging also focuses on strategies to lower healthcare costs, which include reversing Medicaid cuts, reinstating Affordable Care Act tax credits, setting caps on prescription drug out-of-pocket expenses, enhancing oversight of hospital mergers, and curbing the influence of pharmacy benefit managers [[9]](https://roycooper.com/costless/health-care/)[[10]](https://ncarolinaindependent.com/elections/senate-roy-cooper-healthcare-michael-whatley-affordability/)[[11]](https://roycooper.com/make-stuff-cost-less/)[[12]](https://www.wxii12.com/article/roy-cooper-greensboro-campaign-healthcare-proposal/70685757). The campaign generally prioritizes reducing costs and addressing economic concerns rather than introducing extensive new healthcare policy proposals [[5]](https://ballotpedia.org/Roy_Cooper)[[7]](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026)[[13]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/04/06/roy-cooper-d-michael-whatley-r-and-three-other-candidates-are-running-in-north-carolinas-u-s-senate-election-on-november-3-2026/)[[8]](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026_(March_3_Democratic_primary)).

Sources:

1. [Medicaid expansion solidified Cooper's legacy | NC Health News](https://www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2024/12/05/cooper-health-care-legacy/)
2. [N. Carolina governor signs Medicaid expansion bill into law | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-medicaid-expansion-roy-cooper-legislature-f00242e5883bccf816a679a76584a5f9)
3. [A Healthier North Carolina: Governor Cooper Celebrates Nearly 600,000 Enrolled in Medicaid Expansion and Other Major Health Care Accomplishments | NC Governor](https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2024/12/04/healthier-north-carolina-governor-cooper-celebrates-nearly-600000-enrolled-medicaid-expansion-and)
4. [Medicaid spending in North Carolina - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Medicaid_spending_in_North_Carolina)
5. [Roy Cooper - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Roy_Cooper)
6. [North Carolina gubernatorial election, 2020 - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/North_Carolina_gubernatorial_election,_2020)
7. [United States Senate election in North Carolina, 2026 - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026)
8. [United States Senate election in North Carolina, 2026 (March 3 Democratic primary) - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026_(March_3_Democratic_primary))
9. [Making Health Care Affordable | Roy Cooper for North Carolina](https://roycooper.com/costless/health-care/)
10. [Senate candidate Cooper focuses on healthcare in affordability plan | The North Carolina Independent](https://ncarolinaindependent.com/elections/senate-roy-cooper-healthcare-michael-whatley-affordability/)
11. [Make Stuff Cost Less | Roy Cooper for North Carolina](https://roycooper.com/make-stuff-cost-less/)
12. [Roy Cooper campaigns on lowering health care costs as part of his U.S. Senate campaign - WXII](https://www.wxii12.com/article/roy-cooper-greensboro-campaign-healthcare-proposal/70685757)
13. [Roy Cooper (D), Michael Whatley (R), and three other candidates are running in North Carolina's U.S. Senate election on November 3, 2026 - Ballotpedia News](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/04/06/roy-cooper-d-michael-whatley-r-and-three-other-candidates-are-running-in-north-carolinas-u-s-senate-election-on-november-3-2026/)

## How do Roy Cooper's and Michael Whatley's stated economic policies compare on the issues of 'affordability' and 'tariffs' in the 2026 election cycle?

Cooper's Tariffs Stance | Advocates for rolling back tariffs to lower costs [[1]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html)[[2]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/article314920330.html)[[3]](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026) |
Whatley's Tariffs Stance | Advocates for tariffs as a tool for economic growth and jobs [[1]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html) |
Cooper's Economic Focus | Aims to lower costs by reversing tariffs, blocking anti-competitive mergers, and increasing pricing transparency [[1]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html)[[3]](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026) |

**Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley present opposing economic policies for 2026**

Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley present opposing economic policies for 2026. Their economic approaches for the 2026 election cycle diverge significantly, particularly regarding affordability and tariffs [[1]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html). Cooper advocates for rolling back tariffs, arguing that they increase consumer prices and that trade authority rests with Congress [[1]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html)[[2]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/article314920330.html)[[3]](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026). In direct opposition, Whatley supports tariffs as a means for economic growth and job creation, aligning with Donald Trump's agenda [[1]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html)[[2]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/article314920330.html).

Cooper’s platform focuses on specific measures to lower consumer costs. His 'Make Stuff Cost Less' tour highlights an economic platform aimed at reducing expenses by preventing anti-competitive mergers and enhancing pricing transparency in healthcare [[1]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html). Cooper also proposes increased antitrust enforcement in grocery retail and food processing to address rising food costs [[3]](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026).

Michael Whatley's economic strategy promotes tariffs for growth and affordability. His approach closely mirrors Donald Trump's, emphasizing tariffs to generate jobs and increase wages, alongside a focus on the energy sector [[1]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html). Whatley explicitly asserts that tariffs are crucial for both economic growth and affordability [[1]](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html). His campaign also promotes a broad affordability agenda that includes policies designed to facilitate homeownership and family raising, maintaining a close association with Donald Trump [[3]](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026)[[4]](https://ballotpedia.org/Michael_Whatley).

Sources:

1. [Cooper vs. Whatley: comparing policy agendas for campaign | Raleigh News & Observer](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article316090287.html)
2. [Roy Cooper outlines plan to lower costs for North Carolina | Raleigh News & Observer](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/article314920330.html)
3. [United States Senate election in North Carolina, 2026 - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Senate_election_in_North_Carolina,_2026)
4. [Michael Whatley - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Michael_Whatley)

## What strategic objectives is Roy Cooper likely to pursue by appearing on MSNBC's 'The Last Word' versus a local North Carolina outlet in September 2026?

Purpose of National Appearance | Access broader national donor base and signal candidacy significance [[1]](https://www.thebulwark.com/p/roy-cooper-north-carolina-senate-campaign-2026-radical-strategy-act-normal)[[2]](https://www.wfae.org/text/politics/2026-06-22/roy-cooper-never-talks-about-trump)[[3]](https://dnyuz.com/2026/07/20/enough-democratic-drama-north-carolina-has-a-better-boring-way/) |
Opponent Critique Strategy | Consistently pivots to criticizing Michael Whatley as a Washington insider [[4]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[1]](https://www.thebulwark.com/p/roy-cooper-north-carolina-senate-campaign-2026-radical-strategy-act-normal)[- Dan Merica" aria-label="Source 5: Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica" data-citation-label="Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica">[5]](https://jewishworldreview.com/0926/merica090126.php)[[3]](https://dnyuz.com/2026/07/20/enough-democratic-drama-north-carolina-has-a-better-boring-way/) |
Campaign Brand | Pragmatic, moderate 'normal' Democrat focused on local economic issues [[1]](https://www.thebulwark.com/p/roy-cooper-north-carolina-senate-campaign-2026-radical-strategy-act-normal)[[6]](https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/2026/08/roy-cooper-democrat-success/688441/)[- Dan Merica" aria-label="Source 5: Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica" data-citation-label="Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica">[5]](https://jewishworldreview.com/0926/merica090126.php)[[3]](https://dnyuz.com/2026/07/20/enough-democratic-drama-north-carolina-has-a-better-boring-way/) |

**Roy Cooper leverages national media for fundraising and party signaling**

Roy Cooper leverages national media for fundraising and party signaling. Appearances on national platforms, such as MSNBC's 'The Last Word,' enable him to access a broader national donor base and signal the significance of his U.S. Senate candidacy to party leadership [[1]](https://www.thebulwark.com/p/roy-cooper-north-carolina-senate-campaign-2026-radical-strategy-act-normal)[[2]](https://www.wfae.org/text/politics/2026-06-22/roy-cooper-never-talks-about-trump)[[3]](https://dnyuz.com/2026/07/20/enough-democratic-drama-north-carolina-has-a-better-boring-way/). In these national settings, Cooper consistently redirects the discussion to criticize his opponent, Michael Whatley, by characterizing him as an insider connected to Washington [[4]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[1]](https://www.thebulwark.com/p/roy-cooper-north-carolina-senate-campaign-2026-radical-strategy-act-normal)[- Dan Merica" aria-label="Source 5: Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica" data-citation-label="Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica">[5]](https://jewishworldreview.com/0926/merica090126.php)[[3]](https://dnyuz.com/2026/07/20/enough-democratic-drama-north-carolina-has-a-better-boring-way/).

Cooper strategically cultivates a moderate image focusing on local issues. This national exposure is integral to his campaign strategy, which aims to portray him as a pragmatic, moderate "normal" Democrat who focuses on local economic issues like affordability, rather than engaging in nationalized political battles or polarizing rhetoric [[1]](https://www.thebulwark.com/p/roy-cooper-north-carolina-senate-campaign-2026-radical-strategy-act-normal)[[6]](https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/2026/08/roy-cooper-democrat-success/688441/)[- Dan Merica" aria-label="Source 5: Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica" data-citation-label="Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica">[5]](https://jewishworldreview.com/0926/merica090126.php)[[3]](https://dnyuz.com/2026/07/20/enough-democratic-drama-north-carolina-has-a-better-boring-way/). While Cooper's local media appearances are strategically designed to avoid alienating moderate and rural North Carolina voters, including those who might have supported Donald Trump, he frequently refrains from mentioning Donald Trump by name during national programs to maintain his broad-appeal, centrist brand in North Carolina [[4]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[1]](https://www.thebulwark.com/p/roy-cooper-north-carolina-senate-campaign-2026-radical-strategy-act-normal)[- Dan Merica" aria-label="Source 5: Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica" data-citation-label="Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica">[5]](https://jewishworldreview.com/0926/merica090126.php)[[3]](https://dnyuz.com/2026/07/20/enough-democratic-drama-north-carolina-has-a-better-boring-way/)[[2]](https://www.wfae.org/text/politics/2026-06-22/roy-cooper-never-talks-about-trump).

Sources:

1. [Roy Cooper’s Radical Strategy: Act Normal - by Lauren Egan](https://www.thebulwark.com/p/roy-cooper-north-carolina-senate-campaign-2026-radical-strategy-act-normal)
2. [WFAE 90.7 - Charlotte's NPR News Source](https://www.wfae.org/text/politics/2026-06-22/roy-cooper-never-talks-about-trump)
3. [Enough Democratic Drama. North Carolina Has a Better, Boring Way. – DNYUZ](https://dnyuz.com/2026/07/20/enough-democratic-drama-north-carolina-has-a-better-boring-way/)
4. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)
5. [Why this popular Dem is running like he is behind</p><p>- Dan Merica](https://jewishworldreview.com/0926/merica090126.php)
6. [The Secrets of Roy Cooper’s Purple-State Success - The Atlantic](https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/2026/08/roy-cooper-democrat-success/688441/)

## Based on his 2026 campaign rhetoric, how frequently does Roy Cooper mention his opponent, Michael Whatley, by name versus using broader terms like 'Republican'?

Campaign Naming Strategy | Uses opponent's name and partisan labels ('Republican', 'GOP') [[1]](https://abc11.com/post/us-senate-race-ncs-roy-cooper-pushes-back-michael-whatley-attacks-gop-midterm-convention/19816139/)[[2]](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-07-23/whatley-says-he-will-make-things-cost-less-says-cooper-was-the-states-worst-governor)[[3]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/fmr-nc-governor-roy-cooper-accuses-opponent-michael-whatley-of-being-anointed-by-trump/5202587)[[4]](https://www.factcheck.org/2026/09/ad-attacking-n-c-republican-senate-candidate-uses-his-own-dated-words-against-him/)[[5]](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-08-21/republican-u-s-senate-michael-whatley-slams-democratic-roy-cooper-on-public-safety) |
TV Interview Focus (Sep 16, 2026) | Prioritized attacking national party leadership and opponent's alignment over repetitive name use [[6]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[7]](https://www.ms.now/watch/the-last-word-with-lawrence-odonnell-sept-16-audio-only)[[8]](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513) |
Opponent Characterization | Frames Michael Whatley as an oil lobbyist, RNC chair, and beholden to Donald Trump [[1]](https://abc11.com/post/us-senate-race-ncs-roy-cooper-pushes-back-michael-whatley-attacks-gop-midterm-convention/19816139/)[[2]](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-07-23/whatley-says-he-will-make-things-cost-less-says-cooper-was-the-states-worst-governor)[[3]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/fmr-nc-governor-roy-cooper-accuses-opponent-michael-whatley-of-being-anointed-by-trump/5202587)[[4]](https://www.factcheck.org/2026/09/ad-attacking-n-c-republican-senate-candidate-uses-his-own-dated-words-against-him/)[[5]](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-08-21/republican-u-s-senate-michael-whatley-slams-democratic-roy-cooper-on-public-safety) |

**Roy Cooper's 2026 U.S**

Roy Cooper's 2026 U.S. Senate campaign targets his opponent with both name and party labels. Cooper's campaign consistently characterizes his opposition by using both his opponent's name, Michael Whatley, and broader partisan labels such as 'Republican' or 'GOP' [[1]](https://abc11.com/post/us-senate-race-ncs-roy-cooper-pushes-back-michael-whatley-attacks-gop-midterm-convention/19816139/)[[2]](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-07-23/whatley-says-he-will-make-things-cost-less-says-cooper-was-the-states-worst-governor)[[3]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/fmr-nc-governor-roy-cooper-accuses-opponent-michael-whatley-of-being-anointed-by-trump/5202587)[[4]](https://www.factcheck.org/2026/09/ad-attacking-n-c-republican-senate-candidate-uses-his-own-dated-words-against-him/)[[5]](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-08-21/republican-u-s-senate-michael-whatley-slams-democratic-roy-cooper-on-public-safety). Cooper frequently emphasizes Whatley's past roles as an oil lobbyist and RNC chair, framing him as beholden to Donald Trump [[1]](https://abc11.com/post/us-senate-race-ncs-roy-cooper-pushes-back-michael-whatley-attacks-gop-midterm-convention/19816139/)[[2]](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-07-23/whatley-says-he-will-make-things-cost-less-says-cooper-was-the-states-worst-governor)[[3]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/fmr-nc-governor-roy-cooper-accuses-opponent-michael-whatley-of-being-anointed-by-trump/5202587)[[4]](https://www.factcheck.org/2026/09/ad-attacking-n-c-republican-senate-candidate-uses-his-own-dated-words-against-him/)[[5]](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-08-21/republican-u-s-senate-michael-whatley-slams-democratic-roy-cooper-on-public-safety).

A specific interview showed Cooper prioritizing broader party critiques. This shift was evident during Cooper's September 16, 2026 appearance on The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell [[6]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[7]](https://www.ms.now/watch/the-last-word-with-lawrence-odonnell-sept-16-audio-only)[[8]](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513). On this occasion, Cooper's phrasing prioritized attacking national party leadership and his opponent's alignment over repetitive use of Michael Whatley's name [[6]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[7]](https://www.ms.now/watch/the-last-word-with-lawrence-odonnell-sept-16-audio-only)[[8]](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513). During the interview, Cooper highlighted the need for North Carolina to have a senator who will 'stand up to Trump' [[6]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[7]](https://www.ms.now/watch/the-last-word-with-lawrence-odonnell-sept-16-audio-only)[[8]](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513).

Sources:

1. [US Senate Race: NC's Roy Cooper pushes back on Michael Whatley attacks at GOP midterm convention - ABC11 Raleigh-Durham](https://abc11.com/post/us-senate-race-ncs-roy-cooper-pushes-back-michael-whatley-attacks-gop-midterm-convention/19816139/)
2. [Whatley says Cooper was the state’s 'worst' governor; Cooper hits Whatley's connection to Trump | WFAE 90.7 - Charlotte's NPR News Source](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-07-23/whatley-says-he-will-make-things-cost-less-says-cooper-was-the-states-worst-governor)
3. [Fmr. NC Governor Roy Cooper Accuses Opponent Michael Whatley of Being "Anointed" by Trump | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/fmr-nc-governor-roy-cooper-accuses-opponent-michael-whatley-of-being-anointed-by-trump/5202587)
4. [Ad Attacking N.C. Republican Senate Candidate Uses His Own (Dated) Words Against Him - FactCheck.org](https://www.factcheck.org/2026/09/ad-attacking-n-c-republican-senate-candidate-uses-his-own-dated-words-against-him/)
5. [Republican U.S. Senate Michael Whatley slams Democratic Roy Cooper on public safety | WFAE 90.7 - Charlotte's NPR News Source](https://www.wfae.org/politics/2026-08-21/republican-u-s-senate-michael-whatley-slams-democratic-roy-cooper-on-public-safety)
6. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)
7. [The Last Word With Lawrence O’Donnell - Sept. 16 | Audio Only](https://www.ms.now/watch/the-last-word-with-lawrence-odonnell-sept-16-audio-only)
8. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513)

## What Could Change the Odds

**North Carolina Democratic U.S.** Senate candidate Roy Cooper was reported to appear on "The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell" on September 16, 2026, where he allegedly stated, "North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump" [[1]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[2]](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513)[[3]](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InSLUuybdtw)[[4]](https://www.yahoo.com/news/videos/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-035046079.html). Ahead of this reported appearance, Cooper had publicly emphasized his "Make Stuff Cost Less" campaign tour and forecasted his Senate race would be decided by a margin of **3%** or less [[5]](https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_d6c576f3-23d3-438c-b283-d1a33b7f7ed9.html?a=). Prediction markets, such as Kalshi, created a contract regarding what Roy Cooper would say during this specific appearance, with one **market** tracking whether he would use the words "Afford," "Affordable," or "Affordability" [[6]](https://www.coinrithm.com/en/prediction-markets/kalshi/kxlastwordmention-26sep16)[[7]](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxlastwordmention/last-word/kxlastwordmention-26sep16).

**Available records from C-SPAN, which tracks political candidate appearances, show no broadcast segment for Roy Cooper on "The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell" on September 16, 2026 [[8]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-d-nc-holds-campaign-event-in-concord-nc/684753)[[9]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/north-carolina-democratic-us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-speaks-to-reporters/682793)[[10]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-holds-news-conference/682654)[[11]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-attacks-michael-whatley-for-his-stake-in-duke-energy/5204437)[[12]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/cooper-calls-for-local-governments-to-have-significant-input-on-where-data-centers-are-built/5204439)[[13]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-calls-for-rollback-of-trump-tariffs/5202762).** There is no record of Roy Cooper appearing on the program on that date [[8]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-d-nc-holds-campaign-event-in-concord-nc/684753)[[9]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/north-carolina-democratic-us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-speaks-to-reporters/682793)[[10]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-holds-news-conference/682654)[[11]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-attacks-michael-whatley-for-his-stake-in-duke-energy/5204437)[[12]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/cooper-calls-for-local-governments-to-have-significant-input-on-where-data-centers-are-built/5204439)[[13]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-calls-for-rollback-of-trump-tariffs/5202762).

Sources:

1. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)
2. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513)
3. [North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InSLUuybdtw)
4. [North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump - Yahoo](https://www.yahoo.com/news/videos/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-035046079.html)
5. [Election 2026: Cooper forecasts race decided by 3% or less | North Carolina | thecentersquare.com](https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_d6c576f3-23d3-438c-b283-d1a33b7f7ed9.html?a=)
6. [What will Roy Cooper say during The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell? - Kalshi Odds | CoinRithm](https://www.coinrithm.com/en/prediction-markets/kalshi/kxlastwordmention-26sep16)
7. [What will Roy Cooper say during The Last Word with Lawrence O...](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxlastwordmention/last-word/kxlastwordmention-26sep16)
8. [U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper (D-NC) Holds Campaign Event in Concord, NC | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-d-nc-holds-campaign-event-in-concord-nc/684753)
9. [North Carolina Democratic U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper Speaks to Reporters | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/north-carolina-democratic-us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-speaks-to-reporters/682793)
10. [U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper Holds News Conference | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-holds-news-conference/682654)
11. [Roy Cooper Attacks Michael Whatley for His Stake in Duke Energy | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-attacks-michael-whatley-for-his-stake-in-duke-energy/5204437)
12. [Cooper Calls for Local Governments to Have "Significant Input" on Where Data Centers are Built | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/cooper-calls-for-local-governments-to-have-significant-input-on-where-data-centers-are-built/5204439)
13. [Roy Cooper Calls for Rollback of Trump Tariffs | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-calls-for-rollback-of-trump-tariffs/5202762)

## Key Dates & Catalysts

- **Expiration:** September 30, 2026
- **Closes:** September 30, 2026

## Decision-Flipping Events

- North Carolina Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Roy Cooper was reported to appear on "The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell" on September 16, 2026, where he allegedly stated, "North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump" [[1]](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)[[2]](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513)[[3]](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InSLUuybdtw)[[4]](https://www.yahoo.com/news/videos/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-035046079.html).
- Ahead of this reported appearance, Cooper had publicly emphasized his "Make Stuff Cost Less" campaign tour and forecasted his Senate race would be decided by a margin of **3%** or less [[5]](https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_d6c576f3-23d3-438c-b283-d1a33b7f7ed9.html?a=).
- Prediction markets, such as Kalshi, created a contract regarding what Roy Cooper would say during this specific appearance, with one **market** tracking whether he would use the words "Afford," "Affordable," or "Affordability" [[6]](https://www.coinrithm.com/en/prediction-markets/kalshi/kxlastwordmention-26sep16)[[7]](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxlastwordmention/last-word/kxlastwordmention-26sep16).
- Available records from C-SPAN, which tracks political candidate appearances, show no broadcast segment for Roy Cooper on "The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell" on September 16, 2026 [[8]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-d-nc-holds-campaign-event-in-concord-nc/684753)[[9]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/north-carolina-democratic-us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-speaks-to-reporters/682793)[[10]](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-holds-news-conference/682654)[[11]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-attacks-michael-whatley-for-his-stake-in-duke-energy/5204437)[[12]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/cooper-calls-for-local-governments-to-have-significant-input-on-where-data-centers-are-built/5204439)[[13]](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-calls-for-rollback-of-trump-tariffs/5202762).

Sources:

1. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.ms.now/the-last-word/watch/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-a-senator-who-will-stand-up-to-trump-2514407491914)
2. [Roy Cooper: North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump](https://www.modernghana.com/videonews/nbc/1/718513)
3. [North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InSLUuybdtw)
4. [North Carolina needs a senator who will stand up to Trump - Yahoo](https://www.yahoo.com/news/videos/roy-cooper-north-carolina-needs-035046079.html)
5. [Election 2026: Cooper forecasts race decided by 3% or less | North Carolina | thecentersquare.com](https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_d6c576f3-23d3-438c-b283-d1a33b7f7ed9.html?a=)
6. [What will Roy Cooper say during The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell? - Kalshi Odds | CoinRithm](https://www.coinrithm.com/en/prediction-markets/kalshi/kxlastwordmention-26sep16)
7. [What will Roy Cooper say during The Last Word with Lawrence O...](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxlastwordmention/last-word/kxlastwordmention-26sep16)
8. [U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper (D-NC) Holds Campaign Event in Concord, NC | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-d-nc-holds-campaign-event-in-concord-nc/684753)
9. [North Carolina Democratic U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper Speaks to Reporters | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/north-carolina-democratic-us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-speaks-to-reporters/682793)
10. [U.S. Senate Candidate Roy Cooper Holds News Conference | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/us-senate-candidate-roy-cooper-holds-news-conference/682654)
11. [Roy Cooper Attacks Michael Whatley for His Stake in Duke Energy | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-attacks-michael-whatley-for-his-stake-in-duke-energy/5204437)
12. [Cooper Calls for Local Governments to Have "Significant Input" on Where Data Centers are Built | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/cooper-calls-for-local-governments-to-have-significant-input-on-where-data-centers-are-built/5204439)
13. [Roy Cooper Calls for Rollback of Trump Tariffs | Video | C-SPAN.org](https://www.c-span.org/clip/campaign-2026/roy-cooper-calls-for-rollback-of-trump-tariffs/5202762)

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## Historical Resolutions

**Historical Resolutions:** 20 markets in this series

**Outcomes:** 11 resolved YES, 9 resolved NO

**Recent resolutions:**

- KXLASTWORDMENTION-26SEP14-TRUM: YES (Sep 15, 2026)
- KXLASTWORDMENTION-26SEP14-REPU: YES (Sep 15, 2026)
- KXLASTWORDMENTION-26SEP14-NQE: NO (Sep 15, 2026)
- KXLASTWORDMENTION-26SEP14-IRAN: NO (Sep 15, 2026)
- KXLASTWORDMENTION-26SEP14-HEAL: YES (Sep 15, 2026)

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