Georgia Senate and Governor Races Test Trump’s Political Influence in Key Midterms

Trump returns to Georgia

Trump is scheduled to hold a midterm rally in Dalton on Friday, returning to a state described as a key battleground in the coming elections. The president last campaigned in Georgia on July 22.

Senate candidate Mike Collins said on social media that he was excited to welcome Trump back. Trump’s role in both contests has given Democrats an opening to connect their Republican opponents with his policies and standing.

Senate contest shifts

A major Democratic political action committee has withdrawn advertising money from the race to focus on other opportunities in red states. Ossoff also reported raising $33 million in the third quarter, according to Federal Election Commission data cited in a Washington Examiner report.

Policy debates weigh on Collins

In debates with Ossoff, Collins avoided questions about the Iran war and Trump’s tariff policy. A Fox News poll found 69% disapproved of Trump’s handling of tariffs, while 59% opposed U.S. military action against Iran. Asked about high diesel costs linked to the war during their second debate, Collins said, “The supply is coming now, and the prices will continue to come down.” The article does not explain the connection between the war and diesel prices beyond describing them as linked.

Jackson’s changing Trump ties

In the Republican primary, billionaire health executive and political newcomer Jackson campaigned to be “Trump’s favorite governor.” But he did not mention Trump in a debate earlier this month with Democrat Bottoms, instead presenting himself as aligned with popular two-term Gov. Kemp.

Trump first backed Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones in the Republican primary and runoff, then endorsed Jackson after he became the nominee. The two appeared together at a rally in Marietta during Trump’s July visit. ABC News rates the governor’s contest as a toss-up.