Trump Backs Congressman Mike Collins in Georgia Senate Primary Runoff

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced his endorsement for Congressman Mike Collins in the Republican Senate primary runoff election in Georgia. Trump declared his support on his Truth Social platform early Sunday, backing Collins over his opponent, former football coach Derek Dooley.

Trump described Collins as a "very respected congressman" who has been a steadfast supporter since the beginning. He highlighted Collins' strong backing from "the most respected 'MAGA' patriots in Georgia" and numerous Republican representatives and senators. Trump also commended Collins' background as a "very successful businessman" before entering Congress, stating he has "brilliantly" served his community.

Looking ahead to the general election, Trump asserted that Collins, if elected, would "work hard to grow the economy, lower taxes and regulations, promote 'MADE IN THE USA,' and defend American energy dominance." He contrasted Collins with the incumbent Democrat, Jon Ossoff, whom Trump characterized as a "weak and pathetic senator" who supports transgender participation in sports and "open borders." Trump reiterated his own achievements, stating, "I built the strongest border in history, and Congressman Mike Collins backed me up every step of the way."

Collins previously championed the Laken Riley Act, which mandates immigration authorities to detain undocumented immigrants who commit misdemeanors. The bill is named after a nursing student murdered in 2024 by an undocumented migrant with a prior arrest record. Neither Collins nor Dooley secured over 50% of the vote in the May primary, necessitating the runoff. Tensions between Trump and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, who backed Dooley, have been high since Kemp refused to challenge the 2020 election results, which saw Biden narrowly win Georgia.