On this week’s episode of Tying it Together, host Tim Boyum talks with Lucille Sherman of Axios Raleigh and WUNC Capitol Bureau Chief Colin Campbell about U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis dropping out of the U.S. Senate race and the wild “ending” to the legislative session this week. 

In a recent statement, Tillis said his decision was motivated by his desire to spend time with his family and his displeasure with “partisan gridlock,” criticizing what he says is a lack of “independent thinking” in Washington. Meanwhile, former Rep. Wiley Nickel, the only Democrat declared for the Senate race, reacted to the news saying he’s “ready to win.”

Republicans hold a six-seat majority in the Senate, a margin they’ll seek to keep or expand in 2026 as Democratic challengers eye what will be a vacant seat next year.

Later, the group discusses whether a budget is still possible, the new dynamic with a new House speaker and governor.

At the end of the podcast, Sherman courageously recounts her miscarriage experience while reporting on an abortion bill.