Trump backs Rep. Mike Collins in Georgia Senate runoff

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that he is endorsing U.S. Rep. Mike Collins in the Georgia Senate runoff, pitting the second-term congressman against former football coach Derek Dooley. The endorsement comes as the two Republican candidates vie for the chance to challenge Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff in the November midterms.

Collins, a longtime ally of Trump, was described by the president on social media as a "true friend, fighter, and warrior" and praised for his loyalty since the start of Trump's political career. Collins responded that his support among the "MAGA base" stems from his consistent alignment with Trump.

Dooley, a political newcomer backed by Governor Brian Kemp, said Georgia voters prefer an outsider and expressed confidence in his ability to win. Kemp, who previously clashed with Trump over election certification, recruited Dooley as a candidate who could appeal beyond the party establishment.

The endorsement underscores ongoing tensions within the Georgia GOP, with Trump favoring candidates who echo his claims about the 2020 election, while traditional Republicans like Kemp emphasize broader electability. The runoff will determine which candidate faces Ossoff, whose re-election bid is viewed as a key contest in the closely watched midterm cycle.