Georgia Rep Mike Collins Joins GOP Senate Challenge Against Ossoff

Rep. Mike Collins, a second-term Republican congressman from Georgia and trucking executive, has officially announced his candidacy to challenge incumbent Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in the 2026 U.S. Senate race. Collins, who closely aligns himself with President Trump's 'America First' agenda and calls himself a 'MAGA workhorse,' has emphasized his conservative credentials, including his sponsorship of the Laken Riley Act, which mandates detention of illegal immigrants charged with petty crimes. He joins fellow Republicans Rep. Buddy Carter and potentially former football coach Derek Dooley in the GOP primary, with all Republicans eager for Trump's endorsement to strengthen their chances against Ossoff. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has indicated support for Dooley, but Trump has yet to endorse any candidate, signaling a potentially influential role in the primary outcome. The Ossoff seat is viewed as one of the most vulnerable for Democrats in the 2026 cycle, with Republicans seeing a significant opportunity to reclaim it in a state Trump won in the 2024 election. Collins criticizes Ossoff for not representing Georgia's interests and promises to oppose liberal policies, including those related to immigration and transgender athletes' participation in sports.