Former University of Tennessee Football Coach Derek Dooley Receives Georgia Governor Brian Kemp's Endorsement for U.S. Senate Run
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has officially endorsed Derek Dooley, the former University of Tennessee football coach and son of UGA coaching legend Vince Dooley, for the U.S. Senate seat in Georgia. Dooley is running as a Republican primary contender to challenge incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff in the 2026 general election. Dooley, an Athens native, has a background in football, having worked with Alabama, the New York Giants, and the Dallas Cowboys, among others. He expressed his desire for new leadership in the Senate that prioritizes the people of Georgia over politics.
Dooley's decision to enter the political arena was influenced by his belief that Georgia needs a political outsider in Washington to address real problems without being bogged down by partisanship. Governor Kemp, who has a personal connection to the Dooley family, has thrown his support behind Derek Dooley, leading to some candidates, like state Insurance Commissioner John King, dropping out of the race. Other notable contenders in the Republican primary race include U.S. Congressmen Mike Collins and Buddy Carter.
Derek Dooley's entry into the U.S. Senate race in Georgia marks his first foray into politics after a successful career in football. With the backing of Governor Kemp and a platform focused on putting the people of Georgia first, Dooley aims to bring a fresh perspective to Washington and tackle the challenges facing the state. As the primary campaign unfolds, Dooley will continue to engage with voters and present his vision for a better future for Georgia.