Tillis probably hasn’t mentioned Harry Reid because most in NC have never heard of Harry Reid. But what about Mel Tillis; is he available to campaign? The NC people have heard of Mel Tillis.
In a mid term election, the electorate in large numbers will have heard of Harry Reid. It would help turn out conservatives and help fund raising to go hard at Harry Reid. And more people would hear of Harry Reid if Tillis mentioned him.
No excuse not to. none. Running against Nancy Pelosi worked in 2010.