Ex-Volunteer State Gridiron Coach Joins Georgia’s GOP Senatorial Battle
From Football Field to the Political Arena
In an unexpected political twist, Derek Dooley—former football coach at the University of Tennessee is stepping into the 2026 Georgia Senate race as a Republican challenger to Democrat Jon Ossoff. With deep roots in Georgia and a name synonymous with college football, Dooley is positioning himself as a bold, outsider candidate with conservative credentials and a legacy to match.
A Dooley Legacy Returns to Georgia
Derek Dooley, 57, isn’t just another coach-turned-politician. He’s the son of Vince Dooley, the legendary University of Georgia football icon. Before dominating the sidelines, Dooley earned a law degree from UGA and briefly practiced law before embracing a coaching career that took him from Louisiana Tech to the NFL and back through the SEC.
Backed by Kemp, Focused on Washington
Dooley’s campaign launch is no small-time affair. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, a major GOP figure, is backing his bid. Kemp recently opted not to run for the same Senate seat, clearing the path for a heavyweight GOP primary.
In his campaign video, Dooley declares, “The only thing of significance to me is that the citizens of Georgia take pride in their representation in Washington, D.C.”
The Trump Factor and Policy Stances
Dooley aligns himself closely with Donald Trump, stating: “I am yet to witness a president in my lifetime who has been able to deliver such impressive results.”
He didn’t hold back on Jon Ossoff either, accusing him of representing “lawlessness, an unchecked border, rampant inflation and the propagation of woke culture.” Dooley’s message is clear: he’s running to disrupt the status quo and restore conservative leadership in the Senate.
Facing Off with GOP Challenger Mike Collins
Dooley isn’t running unopposed. Congressman Mike Collins, a fellow Republican, has already garnered support from high-profile conservatives, including former House Speaker Newt Gingrich. The GOP primary could turn into a fierce battleground between political legacy and legislative experience.
Ossoff Under Fire from Watchdog Group
The race’s intensity escalates with ethics accusations against incumbent Sen. Jon Ossoff. The Foundation for Accountability and Civic Trust (FACT) alleges that Ossoff may have violated Senate rules by linking campaign fundraising to official duties.
Israel Policy Sparks Controversy
Ossoff’s foreign policy decisions have also drawn criticism. In November 2024, he voted to block arms sales to Israel and, more recently, voted against shipping automatic rifles. Ossoff, one of the few Jewish members of the Senate, has blamed the Israeli government for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating:
“I do not believe the United States Senate should acquiesce without objection to the extreme mass deprivation of civilians in Gaza… including the intolerable starvation of children…”
What This Means for Georgia Voters
This early-stage Senate race is already brimming with drama—celebrity endorsements, hardline rhetoric, and a clash of political visions. Voters can expect a bruising primary, media firestorms, and plenty of campaign cash flowing in. Dooley For Georgia Website
Quote to Remember:
“Georgia requires fresh leadership. That’s why I’ve decided to run for Senate.” – Derek Dooley