Elias Law Group Sent Cease-and-Desist Letter
The legal action followed inquiries sent to the Roy Cooper Senate campaign regarding health and term commitments.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Elections
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The Elias Law Group issued a cease-and-desist letter to the North State Journal regarding questions directed at Roy Cooper's Senate campaign. The outlet had previously sought information about the candidate's health and his intent to serve a full term.
Why it matters
The legal exchange highlights intensified scrutiny during the North Carolina Senate race as outlets seek clarity on candidate fitness and long-term commitments. Voters are weighing these transparency questions ahead of the upcoming election.
The Elias Law Group issued the letter 5.5 hours after the North State Journal sent eight email inquiries to the Roy Cooper campaign. These questions addressed the health of the 67-year-old candidate and his commitment to complete a Senate term.
The players
Roy Cooper
He is a 67-year-old political candidate currently running in the North Carolina Senate election.
Elias Law Group
This legal firm represents the Roy Cooper Senate campaign in this matter.
North State Journal
This news organization covers North Carolina politics and issued inquiries to the Cooper campaign.
Ben Stafford
He is a partner at the Elias Law Group who serves as legal counsel for the campaign.
Michael Whatley
He is a 58-year-old candidate who has stated he will complete his term if elected.
The details
The North State Journal attempted to confirm information regarding Roy Cooper's health status and his willingness to fulfill a potential term in office. In response to these inquiries, the Elias Law Group, represented by partner Ben Stafford, served the media outlet with a cease-and-desist letter.
Timeline
The North State Journal sent inquiries to the Roy Cooper campaign on October 13, 2026.
Michael Whatley turned 58 years old on October 1, 2026.
The Senate election is scheduled for November 2026.
Political Context
The firm's aggressive legal approach follows a pattern established during the 2016 Hillary Clinton campaign. Opponents argue that such measures suppress necessary transparency about candidate health and tenure, effectively limiting public oversight of those seeking federal office.
This dispute creates uncertainty regarding the level of transparency voters can expect from Senate candidates in North Carolina. Residents must now navigate conflicting claims about candidate fitness as they prepare to cast their ballots in November.
The takeaway
Voters should prioritize official candidate statements and public records when assessing claims about health and term longevity. Legal disputes between campaigns and media outlets can sometimes complicate the public's effort to gain clear answers before Election Day.
Further reading
For more background on the state's upcoming contest, read our North Carolina Elections coverage.
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Should political candidates be required to publicly disclose their full medical records during a campaign?
