Roy Cooper

Roy Cooper is an American politician and lawyer who served as the 75th governor of North Carolina from 2017 to 2025. A member of the Democratic Party, Cooper previously held the position of North Carolina's attorney general from 2001 to 2017, making him the longest-serving individual in that role in the state's history. His political career began in the North Carolina General Assembly, where he represented the 72nd district in the House of Representatives and later served in the state Senate. Cooper is recognized for his significant contributions to North Carolina's legal and political landscape and is currently the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in the 2026 election.

Early life and career

Roy Asberry Cooper III was born on June 13, 1957, in Nashville, North Carolina. He was raised in a family with a strong educational and political background; his mother, Beverly Thorne, was a teacher, and his father, Roy Asberry Cooper II, was a lawyer and a Democratic Party operative who played a significant role in North Carolina politics. Cooper's lineage includes Marcom Cooper, who participated in the American Revolutionary War as a juror. He also has a brother, Pell Cooper, who serves as a district court judge.

Cooper attended public schools in North Carolina and worked on his family's tobacco farm during the summer months. He completed his high school education at Northern Nash High School, where he was active in athletics, student government, and participated in the Boys State program. Notably, he represented Nash County in the Youth Legislative Assembly during his senior year, which laid the groundwork for his future political aspirations. He graduated from high school in 1975.

In pursuit of higher education, Cooper received the prestigious Morehead Scholarship to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. While at UNC, he was involved in campus life as a member of the Chi Psi fraternity and served as president of the university's Young Democrats organization. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1979 and later earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 1982.

Cooper's political career began while he was still in law school when then-Governor Jim Hunt appointed him to the State Goals and Policy Board, making him the youngest member to serve on this advisory group. He was also appointed to other significant boards, including the Interim Balance Growth Board and the North Carolina 2000 Commission. After completing his law degree, Cooper joined the law firm Fields, Cooper & Henderson in Nashville, North Carolina, where he became a partner in 1985.

Governorship

Cooper's political career took a significant turn when he decided to run for the North Carolina House of Representatives in 1985, representing the 72nd district. He successfully defeated a long-serving incumbent in the Democratic primary and was unopposed in the general election. His tenure in the House was marked by his effectiveness, as he was recognized as the most effective freshman representative by the North Carolina Center for Public Policy Research. He later transitioned to the North Carolina Senate, where he served until 2001.

In 2000, Cooper was elected as North Carolina's attorney general, a position he held for nearly 16 years. His time in this role was characterized by a focus on public safety, consumer protection, and legal reforms. He was reelected multiple times, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in North Carolina politics.

Cooper's gubernatorial campaign began in earnest in 2016 when he ran against the incumbent Republican governor, Pat McCrory. In a historic victory, Cooper became the first challenger in North Carolina to defeat a sitting governor, taking office in January 2017. His administration faced challenges, including a Republican-controlled legislature that sought to limit the powers of the governor's office. Despite these obstacles, Cooper was able to negotiate significant policy changes, including statewide Medicaid expansion.

Cooper was reelected in 2020, continuing his focus on various issues affecting North Carolina residents. His governorship was marked by efforts to address healthcare, education, and economic development, as well as navigating the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Policy focus and legacy

Throughout his political career, Cooper has been known for his commitment to public service and his focus on key policy areas. As governor, he prioritized healthcare access, particularly through the expansion of Medicaid, which aimed to provide coverage to more North Carolinians. His administration also emphasized education reform, advocating for increased funding for public schools and initiatives to improve educational outcomes.

Cooper's tenure as attorney general was marked by a strong emphasis on consumer protection, public safety, and legal reforms. He implemented measures to enhance the accessibility of public records and improve transparency in government operations. His legislative efforts included advocating for penalties related to gun possession in schools and enhancing the state's open meetings law.

In addition to his policy initiatives, Cooper's legacy includes his role in navigating the political landscape of North Carolina during a time of significant division. His ability to work across party lines and engage in negotiations with a Republican-dominated legislature has been a notable aspect of his governorship.

As he prepares for the next chapter of his political career, Cooper has been named the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in the upcoming 2026 election, where he will face Republican candidate Michael Whatley. His ongoing involvement in North Carolina politics reflects his enduring commitment to public service and the issues that affect the state and its residents.