Hmm, Dewcrist almost got 45% (44.67%) in Texas, I guess 50% is best.
Tillis is decidedly weaker than Dewhurst. Mainly because Dewhurst was reasonably popular in the state even with conservatives. Tillis has no such good marks from the people of NC.
I’d also guess Dewhurst had a lot more personal wealth to use in the campaign. Tillis needs Rove’s bucks.