Overview

• Brian Kemp announced he will not run for the U.S. Senate in 2026, citing personal and family considerations.
• Kemp's decision follows months of lobbying by Republican leaders, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune and former President Donald Trump.
• The announcement triggers a competitive GOP primary, with potential candidates including Marjorie Taylor Greene, Buddy Carter, Mike Collins, and Brad Raffensperger.
• Republicans hold a narrow 53-47 Senate majority, making Georgia's race critical for both parties' control of the chamber.
• Democrats view Kemp's absence as a recruitment setback for Republicans, while the NRSC remains confident in its ability to field a strong candidate.