Kemp supports Derek Dooley's bid for the Georgia Senate position, noting that an outsider could potentially defeat Democrat Jon Ossoff in the race.
Georgia's U.S. Senate Race Heats Up with Derek Dooley's Entry
Derek Dooley, son of legendary University of Georgia coach Vince Dooley, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate race in Georgia, aiming to challenge Sen. Jon Ossoff, considered the Senate's most vulnerable Democratic incumbent seeking reelection next year.
Dooley, a former University of Tennessee football coach, has a mixed record in politics so far. He did not participate in the 2016 and 2020 elections when Trump was a candidate. However, there is no public information about any support he received before deciding to run for the Senate race in 2026.
Georgia Republicans are eager to topple Sen. Ossoff, and the GOP field for the Senate race also includes U.S. Reps. Buddy Carter and Mike Collins, as well as activist Reagan Box.
Dooley's entry into the race has been met with both support and criticism. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp endorsed Dooley, believing an outsider without congressional experience can best critique Ossoff's record. Kemp's endorsement includes financial support and political aides for Dooley's campaign.
However, U.S. Representative Mike Collins has been critical of Dooley's lack of Republican voting history and Georgia residency. Collins also criticizes Dooley's affiliation with a non-Georgia school. In a move that could be seen as a jab, Collins posted a University of Georgia football schedule online with a picture of Dooley standing in for the Sept. 13 game against Tennessee.
Dooley, before coaching, was a lawyer. He has focused on attacking Sen. Ossoff and supporting President Donald Trump. In his political aspirations, Dooley referenced his coaching experience, stating that leadership matters and it's about bringing people together.
The conversation between Dooley and Governor Kemp took place at a tailgate party blocks away from Sanford Stadium. This meeting marked a significant moment in Dooley's political journey, as Kemp made his endorsement before Dooley entered the race.
After leaving Tennessee, Dooley worked as an assistant coach with the Dallas Cowboys, the University of Missouri, the New York Giants, and the University of Alabama. His coaching record with the Tennessee Volunteers was less than stellar, compiling a 15-21 record before being fired in 2012.
As the race heats up, it remains to be seen how Dooley's entry will impact the Georgia Senate race. With both support and criticism, Dooley's candidacy promises an interesting dynamic in the upcoming elections.
