Michael Whatley declares candidacy for US Senate. Source: Carolina JournalOn July 29, the Senate Leadership Fund (SLF) announced a $17 million investment, the first round of a total $71 million invested to elect Michael Whatley. Roy Cooper for North Carolina’s open US Senate seat, currently held by Sen. Thom Tillis, who will not be running for re-election. Democrats see those same weaknesses, which is why they are also pouring millions of dollars into North Carolina to attack Michael Whatley. “Senate Leadership Fund invests $17M, pledges $71M, to back Whatley” was originally published on www.carolinajournal.com.