Jeff Flake Endorses Democrat Jon Ossoff in Georgia Senate Race

Former Republican Senator and Ambassador Jeff Flake endorsed incumbent Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff for his Georgia Senate seat, citing the need for candidates with character who protect the Senate as an institution. Flake stated that while he remains a conservative Republican, he believes character is more important than party alignment, describing Republican challenger Representative Mike Collins as an extreme candidate.

Ossoff is currently leading Collins in early polling. AARP data shows the incumbent with 52% support compared to 43% for Collins, while a Fox News poll places Ossoff at 56%. The Ossoff campaign reported raising $20 million in the second quarter of the year, leaving him with $42 million in cash on hand.

Collins, who is endorsed by Donald Trump, has characterized Ossoff as part of the socialist wing of the Democratic Party. Meanwhile, Collins faces a House ethics investigation regarding the potential misuse of taxpayer funds and accusations of supporting white supremacists. Ossoff has responded by calling Collins a scandal-plagued Trump puppet and bigot.

Flake's endorsement follows other support from conservative voices, including Atlanta radio host Shelley Wynter. Ossoff's campaign manager, Ellen Foster, stated that the campaign is building unstoppable grassroots momentum to defeat Collins in November.