Sen. Thom Tillis says that, without checks on power, "we will have a sort of dictator king if we're not careful"

Updated on: October 4, 2026 / 8:06 PM EDT / CBS News

Sen. Thom Tillis says that, without checks on power, "we will have a sort of dictator king if we're not careful"

TL;DR

  • Senator Thom Tillis is retiring and has written a book criticizing President Trump's advisers as "sycophants."
  • Tillis expresses deep concern over the weakening of checks and balances and the executive branch's overreach.
  • He warns that without proper checks, the U.S. could become a "dictator king" system.
  • Tillis discusses his "WTF moments" with the Trump administration and regrets, including confirming cabinet nominees.
  • He criticizes specific advisors like Pete Hegseth and Kristi Noem, calling them unfit for authority.
  • Tillis notes that many Republican senators privately share reservations about Trump but fear retaliation.
  • He predicts a significant loss for Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections due to affordability issues.
  • Tillis regrets not convicting Trump during his second impeachment trial, viewing the process as rushed and politicized.