Representative Mike Collins (R-GA) faced off against political outsider Derek Dooley at a debate hosted by the Atlanta Press Club this past weekend. The two candidates clashed over immigration and ethics, but also took the opportunity to criticize Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA).
In his opening statement, Rep. Collins claimed that Georgia doesn’t really have a voice in the Senate. According to him, Sen. Ossoff is entirely beholden to his donors from states like California.
He reflected on his background in the House of Representatives and committed to carrying over his "America First" agenda.
In Dooley's opening statement, the outsider reflected on his background as a football coach and promoted himself as the best candidate to challenge Sen. Ossoff.
According to him, the Senator cannot be defeated by another "D.C. politician" and is only vulnerable when facing off against candidates with no baggage. He lamented the state of Congress and the excess of careerism, corruption, and lethargy.
Dooley Confronted
Rep. Collins eventually got the chance to challenge Dooley and did so on the basis of his immigration policy. In a recent interview with 11 Alive, Dooley suggested fines and community service as possible punishments for illegal immigrants. He did not mention deportation.
In fact, he stated that illegal immigrants shouldn't have to look over their shoulders "every five minutes." Rep. Collins asked Dooley why he said this and why he thinks it's fine for illegal immigrants to stay.
Dooley denied saying it, but the Collins Campaign refused to accept this as an answer and accused him of being caught in a lie.
Derek Dooley caught in a LIE about supporting amnesty for illegal aliens.
Let’s roll the tape… pic.twitter.com/JdCXe3Ddfw
— Mike Collins War Room (@TeamOverhaulGA) May 31, 2026
Closing Statements
In his closing statement, Rep. Collins reflected on his background as a trucker and how the experience equipped him to achieve bipartisan success. He then cited the success of his landmark legislation, like the Laken Riley Act, citing it as contributing to the deportation of violent criminal illegal immigrants.
Dooley closed the night with hope for an improved Congress and the promotion of this 'Georgia First' contract. This is Dooley's pledge to fight for congressional reforms, like term limits, and to only work for the interests of Georgians.
