Longtime Tillis Advisor Jordan Shaw on His Boss’ Exit, Legacy, and ’26

Jordan Shaw's connection to U.S. Senator Thom Tillis dates back to 2009, when Shaw was communications director for the NC Republican Party and Tillis was House Minority Whip.

Sixteen years later, Shaw is a founding partner at Gamechangers Strategies — where Tillis remains one of his clients—and he joins us to break down one of the biggest developments in North Carolina politics: Tillis' decision not to run for re-election in 2026.

Shaw shares his perspective on the Senator’s legacy, his influence on conservatism in the state, and what this means for the GOP’s future in North Carolina and beyond. We also look ahead to 2026 — and what might be next for both Shaw and the broader political landscape.

Plus, Skye and Brian preview the upcoming legislative action in Raleigh and keep the always-watchful #CooperWatch going.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.