Conflicts between Donald Trump’s political advisors and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp have surfaced over the selection of a candidate to challenge Democrat Jon Ossoff in the 2026 Senate race. While Kemp, a popular two-term conservative governor, initially floated the name of former University of Tennessee football coach Derek Dooley, Trump’s team reportedly expressed frustration with the nomination, indicating they were not yet ready to endorse any candidate. This tension has raised concerns within the Republican Party about the potential impact on their chances of securing a Senate majority in the upcoming midterm elections.
Despite these tensions, Kemp remains committed to working with Trump and his team, although some within Trump’s circle believe Kemp’s decision to self-anoint a candidate undermines the collective effort. The situation has further complicated the already contentious internal dynamics within the Republican Party, with various factions vying for influence over the direction of the Senate campaign. The race to challenge Jon Ossoff is seen as a critical opportunity for Republicans to gain ground against the Democrats, particularly in a state where Trump narrowly carried in the last presidential election.
Other Republicans, including Rep. Mike Collins and Rep. Buddy Carter, are also preparing to enter the race, with Collins expected to announce his candidacy in the near future. Collins, a businessman who founded a trucking company, is in his second term representing Georgia’s 10th Congressional District, which includes a large swath of urban, suburban, and rural areas between Atlanta and Augusta. His political alignment with Trump has been a significant factor in his potential Senate campaign, as he has been an early backer of the president and has supported various policies aligned with Trump’s vision for the country.
The political landscape in Georgia continues to evolve as the state becomes a key battleground for the 2026 midterm elections. The internal party dynamics, the selection of candidates, and the potential for a major shift in the Senate’s composition are all factors that will influence the outcome of the race. As the competition intensifies, the outcome of this Senate race could have significant implications for the Republican Party’s strategy and future prospects in the midterms.