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Georgia Senate race shock as poll numbers shift
New polling reveals a major shift in the Georgia U.S. Senate race with Derek Dooley gaining 10 percent in just months. Plus, a federal judge makes a major ruling on 2020 election ballots seized in Atlanta and the team debates a controversial push to delay the primary for redistricting.
ATLANTA - A new poll is showing movement in Georgia’s Republican U.S. Senate primary race, with former football coach Derek Dooley gaining support and moving into second place behind U.S. Rep. Mike Collins.
New Quantus Insights Poll
What we know:
During FOX 5 Atlanta’s "Red Clay Rundown," FOX 5 Atlanta anchor Russ Spencer and political strategists discussed the latest Quantus Insights poll, which showed Collins leading the Republican field with 32.6% support. Dooley followed at 22.5%, while U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter received 13.7%.
The poll numbers marked a shift from an earlier Atlanta Journal-Constitution poll discussed the previous week, which had Dooley at 11% and in third place.
Not surprised by rise
What they're saying:
Republican strategist Martha Zoller said she was not surprised by Dooley’s rise in the polls, citing Kemp’s support and increased advertising. "You could feel the momentum sort of shift to Derek Dooley," Zoller said.
RELATED: Gov. Kemp backs Derek Dooley in Georgia Senate race
Political commentator Tharon Johnson also pointed to Kemp’s campaigning and financial backing as contributing factors. Johnson said the governor has been actively traveling across the state campaigning for Dooley while supporting advertising efforts tied to the race.
Despite Dooley’s gains, panelists noted Collins has remained in first place throughout the race. Zoller said Collins continues to benefit from Republican voter support tied to his work on the Laken Riley Act.
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The discussion also focused on whether President Donald Trump could eventually become involved in the race. Zoller said she would be surprised if Trump endorsed a candidate before the primary but suggested pressure could increase if the contest heads to a runoff.
The selected Republican candidate will run against Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff in November.
Other polling insights
Panelists also reviewed new polling in Georgia’s Republican gubernatorial primary. The Quantus Insights poll showed Attorney General Chris Carr at 8%, while Lt. Gov. Burt Jones received 22% and Rep. Rick Jackson led at 27%.