Trump Targets Sen. Tillis with Primary Threat Over 'Big, Beautiful Bill' Opposition

President Donald Trump is stirring the political pot, vowing to back a primary challenger against Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) after the senator opposed Trump’s so-called "big, beautiful bill." The legislation, a sprawling spending package, hit a snag when Tillis announced his refusal to support it, citing concerns over massive Medicaid cuts that could hit North Carolina hard.

Trump took to Truth Social, declaring, "Numerous people have come forward wanting to run in the Primary against 'Senator Thom' Tillis." He plans to meet potential candidates soon, aiming to find someone who will "properly represent" North Carolina and the nation. The move signals a deepening rift within the GOP, as Trump flexes his influence ahead of Tillis’ 2026 re-election bid.

Tillis, undeterred, stood firm during a Senate GOP lunch, emphasizing the bill’s potential to strip $40 billion from North Carolina’s Medicaid funding. "I respect my colleagues’ choices, but this isn’t right for my state," he said. The senator’s defiance, joined by Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), nearly derailed the bill, which barely cleared a procedural vote 51-49. Other Republicans, like Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), expressed reservations but helped advance the measure, though final passage remains uncertain.

The bill, now tweaked to delay provider rate cuts and add $25 billion for rural hospitals, still faces scrutiny for its impact on healthcare. Tillis promises further analysis to highlight the stakes, challenging both the administration and his party to reconsider. Meanwhile, Trump’s public jab at Paul—"What’s wrong with this guy???"—underscores the growing tension as the GOP navigates its slim 53-47 Senate majority.