He has represented North Carolina in Washington for a decade, and has clashed with President Trump as recently as Saturday.

Tillis made the surprise announcement one day after he opposed a massive bill for Trump's agenda in the Senate.

One of the most competitive, expensive and high-profile Senate races next year will likely feature two candidates who will keep President Donald Trump at arms' length — including the Republican candidate.

Each week, join Dawn Vaughan for The News & Observer and NC Insider’s Under the Dome podcast, an in-depth analysis of topics in state government and politics for North Carolina. North Carolina has shaken up Washington, D.C. in recent weeks following the news that Republican Sen. Thom Tillis will not seek reelection.

GOP Sen. Thom Tillis’ surprise retirement announcement has shaken up not only North Carolina’s Senate race, but also the broader fight for the majority in the chamber heading into next year’s midterm

The North Carolina Republican faced sharp attacks from President Donald Trump after he voted against his massive tax and spending bill on Saturday.

In North Carolina, Tillis rose quickly to become a Republican leader. He finds himself sometimes at odds with a GOP president who demands loyalty in D.C.