Dooley wants to create a better Georgia

"I'm not part of the political establishment," said Coach Dereck Dooley. "As a football coach, I led young people from all walks of life and worked hard every day to make a positive impact on their lives and create better opportunities for their future. And that is the kind of work I want to do for Georgians."

That's former University of Tennessee head football coach Derek Dooley who is running for the United States Senate in Georgia against incumbent U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff.

Dooley, an Athens native, attorney, and longtime coach, said his campaign will focus on economic growth, border security, and what he describes as restoring “common-sense leadership” in Washington. He is seeking the Republican nomination along with Buddy Carter and Mike Collins.

Best known to many voters for his time in college football, Dooley served as head coach at the University of Tennessee from 2010 to 2012. Before that, he was head coach at Louisiana Tech University and later worked in administrative and assistant coaching roles, including time with the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants organization. He is also the son of legendary University of Georgia head coach Vince and Barbara Dooley.

Since leaving coaching, Dooley has worked primarily as an attorney and business executive. In announcing his candidacy, he emphasized his experience in leadership and team building, saying the skills required to manage major athletic programs translate into government service.

In a campaign statement, Dooley said he believes voters are frustrated with political division and are looking for leaders outside traditional political careers.

“I’ve spent my life leading teams, solving problems, and being accountable for results,” Dooley said. “Washington needs less talk and more leadership focused on strengthening the economy, protecting families, and supporting our communities.”

The Georgia Senate race is expected to draw national attention and significant fundraising, as control of the Senate could again hinge on competitive statewide races. Political analysts say candidates with strong name recognition often begin with an early advantage in fundraising and voter awareness, particularly in large statewide contests like Georgia.

Dooley will face a competitive primary field, and the eventual nominees from both parties are expected to campaign heavily across both rural and metropolitan areas of the state.

The election will take place in November, with primary elections scheduled earlier in the year.

As the campaign develops, voters can expect to hear more detailed policy positions from Dooley and other candidates on issues including the economy, immigration, healthcare, and federal spending.