The Republican primary for the U.S. Senate seat in Georgia is intensifying as candidates prepare to challenge incumbent Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in the 2026 elections. Recent filings with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) reveal critical fundraising trends and shifting voter dynamics that may shape the outcome of this pivotal race.
Three main contenders have emerged in the GOP field: Rep. Buddy Carter, Rep. Mike Collins, and political newcomer Derek Dooley. Each candidate brings distinct backgrounds and supporter bases, but the current financial landscape indicates that the party must unify behind a strong candidate soon to avoid weakening its chances in the general election.
Through the end of September 2025, campaign finance reports have highlighted both the opportunities and challenges facing Republican contenders. According to data summarized by the Associated Press, Carter’s campaign has raised approximately $3.6 million, bolstered by a significant $2 million loan from the candidate. This self-financing raises questions about the depth of grassroots support, which is often crucial for winning statewide races.
In contrast, Collins has reported $1.9 million raised through his congressional campaign and contributions from across all of Georgia’s counties, bringing his total to $2.9 million with $2.4 million in cash on hand. Meanwhile, Dooley has raised $1.85 million, maintaining about $1.7 million in available funds. These figures suggest a competitive environment, but Carter’s early lead may not reflect widespread voter enthusiasm.
Polling data reflects this evolving landscape. Early surveys showed Ossoff leading his Republican challengers by mid-to-high single digits. A January poll from WPA Intelligence indicated double-digit advantages for Ossoff against both Carter and Collins. However, by late summer, the race began to tighten significantly. A September survey from Quantus Insights revealed Ossoff and Collins tied at 38 percent, with Carter trailing closely at 37 percent. Dooley remained several points behind, struggling to gain traction in the polls.
The narrowing margins indicate that the GOP has a viable path to reclaim the Senate seat. Shifts among key voter demographics, particularly non-college-educated white and exurban voters, have begun to favor Republican candidates, while Democrats continue to rely on urban, younger, and Black voters to maintain their hold.
Collins appears to be the only Republican candidate demonstrating credible competitiveness against Ossoff in public polling. His rise in name recognition and perceived electability among conservative voters suggests he may be the strongest candidate for the GOP. Republican voters in Georgia have reasons for optimism as Ossoff’s earlier lead has diminished to the margin of error.
To maximize their chances of success, GOP leaders, donors, and voters must rally around a single candidate. Every dollar spent on internal party disputes detracts from resources that could be used to defeat Ossoff. Additionally, prolonged divisions waste valuable time that could be spent building a united coalition capable of winning in November 2026.
As the race develops, the focus shifts to whether Georgia’s Republican electorate will recognize the need for unity and support a single viable candidate. The momentum in polling and fundraising appears to favor Collins, leaving the GOP to decide how best to navigate the path forward in this critical and potentially transformative race.