Kemp endorses Derek Dooley for Georgia Senate seat and says an outsider can beat Democrat Jon Ossoff
August 30, 2025
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has endorsed Derek Dooley for the Republican nomination for the Senate seat in 2026. Kemp says an outsider like Dooley without congressional experience can best challenge Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff. Kemp announced his support on Saturday before a University of Georgia football game in Athens. Kemp’s endorsement isn’t a surprise after he told other candidates last month he would back Dooley. Rival Republican Mike Collins argues Dooley lacks the record of political activity and support for President Donald Trump needed to motivate Republican voters. Trump hasn’t yet endorsed anyone, and candidate Buddy Carter argues that is a more important nod.