On Monday’s episode of MSNBC’s “The Rachel Maddow Show,” former Governor Roy Cooper, a 2026 Senate candidate from North Carolina, criticized Republicans for allegedly worsening food insecurity among children.

Cooper expressed, “It’s concerning to see the many harmful policies emerging from Washington that negatively impact the middle class and those striving to attain it. They’re facing health care reductions while tax benefits favor the wealthy, leaving minimal support for most people. Over and over, we witness decisions that disadvantage ordinary citizens, essentially depriving hungry children of necessary food.”

He continued, “I felt compelled to make a difference in these challenging times. I’m running for the U.S. Senate because I have successfully collaborated with Republicans here in North Carolina and opposed them when necessary. We’ve expanded health care to over 670,000 residents, and implemented plans to mitigate living expenses by forgiving $4 billion in Medical Debt for two million citizens. I want to apply these problem-solving abilities in Washington to improve life in North Carolina. My commitment to my state and nation drives me to step forward once more, and I am prepared to take on this challenge.”

Follow Pam Key on X @pamkeyNEN