In Dalton, Georgia, Derek Dooley, a former head coach for the University of Tennessee’s football team, has announced his consideration of a Republican candidacy for the U.S. Senate in Georgia, targeting the seat currently held by Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff in the 2026 election cycle.
Dooley’s interest signals the quest among Georgia Republicans to find a suitable contender after Governor Brian Kemp decided against pursuing the Senate seat.
Ossoff is perceived as one of the more vulnerable Democratic senators facing re-election in the coming years.
At 56, Dooley stated his decision regarding a potential Senate bid will be made in the coming weeks.
In a statement, he emphasized, “Georgia deserves stronger common-sense leadership in the U.S. Senate that represents all Georgians and focuses on results — not headlines.”
He further elaborated on his belief that a political outsider is what Georgia needs in Washington to break through partisanship and focus on tangible solutions.
His announcement coincides with other Republican candidates campaigning at a state convention held in Dalton, Georgia.
Among those who have declared their candidacies are U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, Insurance Commissioner John King, and activist Reagan Box.
Potential contestants include U.S. Reps. Mike Collins and Rich McCormick, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, and state Sen. Greg Dolezal.
Throughout the convention, criticism towards Ossoff energized attendees, with Insurance Commissioner King declaring that President Trump requires Senate support.
Dooley, although he has never pursued a political role before, may capitalize on his legacy as the son of Vince Dooley, a celebrated University of Georgia coach, and Governor Kemp’s deep-rooted connections with the Dooley family.
Governor Kemp, noted for having a powerful Republican political network in the state, could potentially endorse Dooley.
Kemp’s relationship with the Dooley family dates back to his youth, further cementing potential backing.
Historically, Trump preferred a different candidate in past Senate races, conveying a lack of support for Kelly Loeffler’s previous campaign.
The Republican Party aims to avoid such divisiveness in the upcoming election.
The vetting process of candidates for the 2026 election has seen some developments.
High-profile figures like U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene have opted out of bringing their conservative views to a Senate race.
Sports legends have previously found political success, with individuals like Tommy Tuberville and Jim Tressel securing significant roles in government.
Derek Dooley, an alumnus of the University of Virginia, played as a wide receiver and later pursued a law degree from the University of Georgia.
Transitioning from law to sports, he climbed through the college coaching ranks, ultimately leading as head coach at Louisiana Tech and Tennessee.
Post his coaching career with Tennessee, Dooley contributed as an assistant coach in the NFL and various universities, most recently collaborating with the University of Alabama as an offensive analyst.