ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Georgia’s nationally watched U.S. Senate race in the 2026 midterms has an unconventional candidate with a legendary name.

A longtime collegiate and NFL football coach, and the son of legendary University of Georgia football coach Vince Dooley, Derek Dooley is challenging Georgia’s current U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, a Democrat, for his seat in 2026. He’s joined in the race by Republican congressmen Mike Collins of Georgia’s 10th district and Buddy Carter of the state’s 1st district.

Dooley was endorsed Saturday by Gov. Brian Kemp before UGA’s college football season opener in Athens.

During this week’s episode of On The Record With Atlanta News First , Dooley spoke with Atlanta News First political reporter Doug Reardon about his campaign.

Also

See Full Page