In this interview with Clay and Buck, former RNC Chairman Michael Whatley addresses the brutal murder of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte light rail train — a crime that shocked the nation and exposed deep failures in the justice system. Whatley calls out soft-on-crime policies and the lack of accountability for repeat offenders, linking the tragedy to broader issues facing North Carolina and the country. He also discusses his campaign for U.S. Senate.

I’m excited to announce my campaign for the U.S. Senate to represent the great state of North Carolina!

I am humbled and excited to begin this campaign, and I would be honored to earn your vote, your support, and your prayers.

Let’s get to work. 🇺🇸https://t.co/PA8TuFPwCL… pic.twitter.com/KdhRd5ni5E

— Michael Whatley (@ChairmanWhatley) July 31, 2025