Former collegiate and professional football coach Derek Dooley, a Georgia native and son of legendary University of Georgia head football coach Vince Dooley, announced early Monday his plan to run for a seat in the U.S. Senate.
Dooley, who is making his first foray into the world of politics, joins a number of Republican and independant candidates who will challenge incumbent Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in next year's Senate election, which will be held on November 3, 2026.
“I’m not part of the political establishment, and I haven’t spent my life climbing the D.C. political ladder. For thirty years, I led young people from all walks of life and fought every day to create hope and opportunity for them and their families," Dooley said in a statement sent to local media ahead of his official campaign announcement. "The foundation of football is the American Spirit. You work hard, you play by the rules, you keep fighting when adversity hits—you have a fair shot at achieving your dreams. As a coach, I wanted that for all my players. As your next U.S. Senator, I want that for all Georgians—and all Americans."
Dooley enters an increasingly crowded race for the GOP primary nomination, a contest which already includes Georgia State Representatives Buddy Carter and Mike Collins, along with another political newcomer in horse trainer Reagan Box.
“I’m running to put Georgia First and bring common sense to D.C. Georgians know biological men shouldn’t be playing in women’s sports, hardworking people should keep more of their money, and opening our borders makes us less safe," Dooley said. “As your Senator, I’ll work hard every day alongside President Trump to keep our borders secure and our communities safe, keep your taxes low, stand with the brave men and women who serve our country, and create greater opportunities for all Georgians."
The winner of next year's midterm elections will join Democratic Senator Raphael Warnock in representing Georgia in the U.S. Senate chamber.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2025/8/1296143/former-football-coach-derek-dooley-latest-gop-member-to-join-race-for-us-senate