Georgia Republicans Eyeing 2026 Senate Run, But Kemp Looms Large

The 2026 Senate race in Georgia is already shaping up to be a major battleground, with multiple Republicans considering challenging incumbent Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff. However, a clear frontrunner has emerged, at least in the eyes of many within the state’s GOP: Governor Brian Kemp. While Kemp has yet to announce his intentions, several potential candidates are making it clear that the nomination is essentially his for the taking.

The race is considered a prime opportunity for Republicans to reclaim a Senate seat in a state that has become increasingly competitive. The Cook Political Report has rated Ossoff’s seat as a "Toss Up," reflecting the closely divided electorate and the potential for a Republican surge, especially following former President Trump’s victory in the state in the recent election.

Representatives Rich McCormick and Mike Collins, both Georgia Republicans, have acknowledged their interest in the Senate seat but have also emphasized that Kemp’s decision will be the determining factor.

"We always consider everything. I’m a moneyball kind of guy," McCormick told Fox News Digital, highlighting his district’s high voter participation as a sign of his potential strength as a candidate. He emphasized the importance of being discussed in the context of the Senate race, underscoring his ambition and belief in his ability to compete.

Collins echoed this sentiment, stating, "If options come about, like this seat that I hold right now, and I see that I can win, and I see that I can make a difference, then, sure, you’re going to take a hard look at it." He conveyed a willingness to step up and run if he believes he has a viable path to victory and can effectively represent Georgia’s interests in the Senate.

However, both congressmen were unequivocal in their support for Kemp should he decide to enter the race. "He could win that seat very easily. He could walk away with it," Collins asserted, highlighting Kemp’s popularity and perceived electability.

McCormick reinforced this point, saying, "If Governor Kemp gets involved in that race, hands down, I’ll support him. He would win that race both in the primary and the general. So, I want to be very, very specific on that." He emphasized the strength of Kemp’s potential candidacy, suggesting that he would be a formidable opponent for Ossoff in both the primary and general elections.

Kemp’s popularity within the Georgia Republican Party is undeniable, stemming from his conservative policies and his willingness to stand up to pressure, even from within his own party. His success in winning re-election despite being targeted by Trump in 2022 has further solidified his standing as a strong and independent leader.

A senior advisor to Kemp, Cody Hall, stated that "There is no doubt that Georgia Republicans will be united to defeat Jon Ossoff and finally have a voice that reflects our states values in the U.S. Senate." This statement suggests a concerted effort to rally behind a single candidate, with Kemp being the most likely choice to lead that effort.

Kemp himself has remained coy about his future plans, citing his current responsibilities as governor and chairman of the Republican Governors Association. "I’m in the middle of my legislative session. We’ve got a big tort reform fight going on. I’m chairing the Republican Governors Association. I made a commitment on that," he explained, adding, "I know I can’t keep holding out forever, so we’ll have something to say on that down the road." This indicates that Kemp is carefully considering his options and will make a decision in due course.

Despite Kemp’s looming presence, McCormick and Collins are keeping their options open, particularly in the event that the governor chooses not to run. Collins noted that the ultimate nominee could be influenced by former President Trump, stating, "But at the end of the day, you know, if he doesn’t run, the nominee that’ll get it will be the one that Donald Trump picks." This highlights the potential for Trump to play a significant role in the primary, as he has done in previous Georgia elections.

Trump’s endorsement of David Perdue over Kemp in the 2022 gubernatorial primary underscores the potential for conflict and division within the party. However, Kemp’s victory in that race demonstrated his ability to withstand Trump’s influence and appeal to a broader base of voters. Trump’s endorsement of Herschel Walker in the 2022 Senate race, which ultimately resulted in a Democratic victory for Raphael Warnock, serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of relying solely on Trump’s endorsement.

The 2026 Senate race is expected to be expensive and highly competitive, with McCormick predicting it could be a "half-billion-dollar race." He emphasized the importance of having a clear message that resonates with Georgia voters.

Ossoff’s campaign did not provide comment, indicating a strategic approach of not engaging prematurely in the unfolding Republican contest. The focus for now remains on the potential Republican candidates and the looming decision of Governor Kemp.

The race promises to be a defining moment for Georgia politics, with the potential to significantly impact the balance of power in the U.S. Senate. The outcome will depend on a variety of factors, including Kemp’s decision, the level of Trump’s involvement, and the ability of the Republican nominee to unite the party and appeal to independent voters.