Georgia Republican primary runoff voters selected US Representative Mike Collins over former college football coach Derek Dooley to challenge Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in November's midterm elections. Additionally, billionaire healthcare executive Rick Jackson defeated Trump-backed Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones to become the GOP gubernatorial nominee.
Collins vs. Ossoff: A High-Stakes Senate Race
Senator Jon Ossoff, who has represented Georgia since 2021, has gained attention for his sharp critiques of Donald Trump's administration. He will now face Collins, a trucking executive and former 'freedom caucus' conservative endorsed by Trump, who has served in the US House since 2023. Collins, an anti-abortion hardliner, has denied the legitimacy of the 2020 election and defended January 6 rioters.
Dooley, son of legendary University of Georgia football coach Vince Dooley, earned a law degree from UGA and later coached at the University of Tennessee, leading to three consecutive losing seasons. He is a close friend of outgoing Governor Brian Kemp, who endorsed him.
Jackson's Gubernatorial Win Amid Legal Battles
Jackson will represent the GOP in the gubernatorial race against Democratic candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms. The primary campaign was marked by intense legal disputes. Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones pushed a bill targeting Jackson's healthcare contracts with the state, while Jackson filed defamation lawsuits against Jones. The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on Friday that Jones's leadership committee is likely illegal.
Jones, a stalwart conservative favored by Trump, was among the 'fake electors' indicted in Fulton County but was dropped from the case after District Attorney Fani Willis hosted a fundraiser for his opponent. Jackson, a political newcomer, poured at least $50 million of his own money into provocative advertising, sidelining other candidates.
Governor Kemp endorsed Jones on Sunday, but turnout has been light. Over 300,000 voters had already cast ballots by Sunday. Jackson responded on X, saying, 'I have always been the outsider in this race and still am, but mark my words: I’ll be President Trump’s favorite governor and I’ll build on Governor Kemp’s legacy here in Georgia.'
