Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Chair Kirsten Gillibrand released a statement in support of former Gov. Roy Cooper’s candidacy for the U.S.

By Bo Erickson WASHINGTON (Reuters) -North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper launched his campaign for the U.S. Senate on Monday, offering his Democratic Party one of its best opportunities nationwide to win back a Republican-held seat in next year's midterm elections.

A looming matchup between Cooper and Michael Whatley, chairman of the Republican National Committee, is anticipated to be one of the most competitive, expensive races in the midterm elections.