WASHINGTON (AP) — Though patients don’t rush through the doors of this emergency room anymore, an empty hospital in Williamston, North Carolina, offers an evocative illustration of why Republican Sen. Thom Tillis would buck his party leaders to vote down President Donald Trump’s signature domestic policy package.

Speculation is growing that Lara Trump could return to North Carolina for a Senate bid. With President Donald Trump’s backing and other potential candidates seeming tentative, the seat seems to be hers to claim.

Sen. Thom Tillis’ decision not to seek reelection is jolting what was already expected to be a fierce battle for his seat, which will now be wide open in 2026.