Georgia Republican Mike Collins has officially announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate, aiming to challenge Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in the 2026 elections. As a second-term member of Congress representing a district east of Atlanta, Collins enters a competitive race that has already attracted attention from notable political figures, including U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter and potentially former University of Tennessee football coach Derek Dooley.
In a video statement released on Monday, Collins criticized Ossoff, questioning his commitment to Georgia constituents. He emphasized his intention to champion the “America First” agenda and advocate for the state’s interests. Collins, who comes from a notable political family—his father was an eight-term congressman—frames himself as an everyman trucker and a staunch supporter of former President Trump.
Collins’ decision to run follows a shift in the political landscape after Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced he wouldn’t challenge Ossoff, leaving a notable vacancy for Republicans. With a history of competitive races and shifting allegiances, Georgia remains a focal point in national politics, especially after Democrats gained control of the Senate through Ossoff’s victory in a closely watched runoff in 2021.
Despite increasing competition from Democrats, Collins and his supporters believe that Ossoff’s election was an anomaly and assert that Georgia’s core values remain staunchly conservative. As Collins positions himself as a candidate who can effectively represent Georgia’s interests, he draws on his trucking background and combative social media presence to connect with voters.
His recent legislative actions, including a law aimed at detaining undocumented immigrants charged with theft, highlight his tough stance on immigration, which could resonate with his base. However, his social media approach has drawn controversy; in the past, he has faced backlash for his provocative comments.
Meanwhile, Ossoff is actively campaigning, having raised significant funds, and is regarded as a formidable incumbent. His previous campaign successes in 2021 and 2022 underscore the heightened financial stakes in Georgia politics, with candidates expected to spend extensively once again.
As the political landscape evolves, Collins’ candidacy could intensify the already competitive Senate race in Georgia, drawing attention to crucial issues while shaping the narrative heading into the pivotal elections.
With both parties gearing up for a fierce battle, the outcome of this race will potentially significantly influence the balance of power in the Senate. Georgia is once again poised to play a critical role in national politics, providing both challenges and opportunities for candidates on both sides.