GOP heavyweights Buddy Carter and John King battle for Georgia senate seat … and the party is just starting with others expected to throw their hat into the ring in the coming days.
The 2026 U.S. Senate race in Georgia is shaping up to be a pivotal contest, with two prominent Republicans—U.S. Representative Buddy Carter and Georgia Insurance Commissioner John King—vying to challenge Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff. While both candidates align with conservative values, their backgrounds, political trajectories, and campaign strategies present distinct contrasts.
Fundraising and Financial Standing
As of early May 2025, Buddy Carter has demonstrated a significant fundraising advantage, reporting nearly $3.5 million in available campaign funds. In contrast, John King, who officially entered the race this month, has yet to disclose his fundraising totals. Given the high stakes and anticipated costs of the race, King’s ability to mobilize financial support will be crucial in the coming months.
Political Background and Electoral History
Buddy Carter, a pharmacist by profession, has a long-standing political career. He served in the Georgia State House and Senate before being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2014, representing Georgia’s 1st congressional district. Carter has consistently secured re-election, often with comfortable margins, reflecting strong support in his coastal Georgia district. John King’s public service began in law enforcement, serving as an Atlanta police officer and later as the police chief of Doraville. In 2019, Governor Brian Kemp appointed him as Georgia’s Insurance Commissioner, a position he secured through election in 2020, becoming the first Hispanic elected to statewide office in Georgia. While King has not previously run for federal office, his statewide role has provided him with a platform to engage with diverse communities across Georgia.
Alignment with Former President Trump
Both candidates have expressed support for former President Donald Trump, a significant figure in Georgia Republican politics. Carter has been particularly vocal, branding himself as a “MAGA Warrior” and endorsing Trump early in the 2024 election cycle. He has emphasized his alignment with Trump’s policies on border security and conservative social issues.
King has also aligned himself with Trump, highlighting his support during his campaign announcement. However, he has not yet received an official endorsement from the former president. Trump’s endorsement could play a pivotal role in the Republican primary, influencing voter perceptions and campaign dynamics.
Policy Platforms and Key Issues
Carter’s platform focuses on conservative priorities, including strict immigration policies, opposition to transgender athletes in school sports, and economic deregulation. He has also advocated for the repeal of the Affordable Care Act and has taken firm stances against cannabis legalization.
King emphasizes his law enforcement background and military service, presenting himself as a candidate with a deep understanding of public safety and emergency preparedness. His campaign aims to appeal to a broad spectrum of voters, including Georgia’s growing Hispanic population, leveraging his unique position as the state’s first Hispanic statewide elected official.
Looking Ahead
As the Republican primary unfolds, voters will assess the contrasting profiles of Carter and King. Carter’s established political presence and fundraising capabilities position him as a formidable contender. Meanwhile, King’s diverse background and statewide experience offer a fresh perspective within the GOP field. The race promises to be a defining moment for Georgia Republicans as they seek to unseat Senator Ossoff in a state that continues to be a focal point in national politics
