The decision sets the stage for what is likely to be a heavyweight battle between a behind-the-scenes political insider and a former governor with a knack for winning unaffiliated voters.

President Donald Trump declared last week on social media that Gastonia’s Michael Whatley would “make an unbelievable senator” for North Carolina. On Thursday, Whatley, chairman of the Republican National Committee, is set to officially announce his U.S. Senate campaign from his hometown of Gastonia, according to his campaign.