Overview

• John King announced his withdrawal from the 2026 Republican primary and will seek reelection as insurance commissioner after acknowledging slim nomination prospects.
• Gov. Brian Kemp informed King that he plans to support Derek Dooley’s Senate bid despite Dooley not having formally entered the race.
• Rep. Buddy Carter remains the only officially declared Republican candidate following King’s exit.
• U.S. Rep. Mike Collins continues to weigh a campaign and has been consulting with President Trump on a potential endorsement.
• Georgia’s open Senate primary is drawing strategic interest due to the state’s swing status and its impact on the Senate’s 53-47 Democratic majority.