In a move that’s shaking up Georgia's political landscape, Governor Brian Kemp has thrown his weight behind Derek Dooley for the U.S. Senate. Speaking to reporters before the University of Georgia’s season opener, Kemp made his endorsement public, lining up behind Dooley's inaugural political campaign. According to Atlanta News First, Dooley, a previous football coach and University of Georgia grad, is vying for a seat currently held by Democrat Jon Ossoff.
Timing his endorsement just an hour before the home game at a field named for Dooley’s father, Kemp's announcement may resonate with the state's sports enthusiasts, whose passions bleed into the political arena as football does here. Fox5 Atlanta reports that Dooley, in an effort to win over voters, capitalized on his background in sports, arguing "it doesn't matter what your race is, what your income level is, what your politics is, what your religion is," a history of unifying different factions, which he aims to bring into his political career. Dooley told that his leadership will echo the successes seen in the state.
Kemp's endorsement isn't just about friendship or alma mater loyalty. He sees a strategic play in supporting Dooley against Ossoff, whose voting record Kemp believes doesn't align with Georgian values. President Donald Trump also came into the conversation, as Kemp mentioned to Fox5 Atlanta, "Derek just told the president, I am not asking for your endorsement, I am going to earn it." A bold stance, considering Trump's considerable influence in Republican politics.
But the road to the Senate isn’t clear for Dooley yet. First, he must claim victory in the GOP primary in May, a contest that also includes Reps. Buddy Carter and Mike Collins. Racing down the proverbial field, Dooley is setting out to "earn the support every day from the people of Georgia and give this Senate seat back to them," as his first foray into the arena of politics gains pace. His campaign strategy, as suggested by his words in the Fox5 Atlanta interview.
