Georgia Politics Shake-Up: King Steps Down, Eyes on Derek Dooley

John King, Georgia Insurance Commissioner, exited the 2026 Republican Senate race. Governor Brian Kemp supports Derek Dooley, prompting political shifts. While King refocuses on his commissioner role, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter enters the Senate race. The contest targets Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff, deemed vulnerable in upcoming elections.

In a significant development for Georgia politics, Insurance Commissioner John King has withdrawn from the 2026 Republican Senate race. King admitted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that his prospects for nomination to face Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff were slim.

The political landscape further shifted as Governor Brian Kemp expressed support for former University of Tennessee football coach Derek Dooley, intriguing many as Dooley's official campaign remains unlaunched. Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter declared his candidacy, stepping into the race filled with high stakes.

King has redirected his focus back to his role as insurance commissioner, emphasizing his commitment to serving Georgia in various capacities. The decision comes amid a backdrop of major Republican figures, including U.S. Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene and Kemp, opting not to contest for the nomination.

(With inputs from agencies.)