Former Arizona Senator Jeff Flake, a prominent Republican critic of former President Donald Trump, has thrown his support behind Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in Georgia's closely watched Senate race. Flake's endorsement, reported by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, underscores the deepening divide within the GOP over Trump's influence.
"I'm still a conservative Republican. But character matters. And I want someone in that seat who takes the institution seriously and will protect the institution," Flake said, explaining his decision to back Ossoff over Republican challenger Rep. Mike Collins.
Flake, who served in the Senate from 2013 to 2019, has a history of breaking with his party on Trump. In September 2024, he announced he could not support Trump and endorsed then-Vice President Kamala Harris in the presidential race. His latest endorsement aligns with his stated commitment to principle over party loyalty.
Ossoff, who is seeking a second term, holds a 9-point lead over Collins, according to a recent AARP poll. The survey found 52% of likely voters supporting Ossoff, while 43% backed Collins. The race has drawn national attention as a key battleground for control of the Senate.
Flake's endorsement could resonate with moderate Republicans and independents in Georgia, a state that has trended Democratic in recent cycles. It also highlights the challenges Collins faces in a state where Trump's polarizing presence looms large.
Ossoff's campaign has been buoyed by strong fundraising. In the second quarter, he raised $20 million, ending with $42 million in cash on hand. Campaign manager Ellen Foster touted the grassroots momentum, vowing to "push back against Republican dark money" and defeat "Trump loyalist Mike Collins."
The race has already seen national figures weigh in. Trump, who has repeatedly attacked Ossoff, held a rally in Georgia where he slammed the senator as "terrible" and warned of "Democrat Communists." Ossoff, meanwhile, has pressed the administration on defense issues, recently challenging Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Iran claims.
Political analysts have taken note of Ossoff's standing. Sabato's Crystal Ball recently upgraded the race to "Likely Democratic," reflecting his consistent lead. However, with control of the Senate at stake, both parties are expected to pour resources into the state.
Flake's endorsement adds a bipartisan veneer to Ossoff's campaign, but it remains to be seen whether it will sway voters in a deeply polarized environment. For now, Ossoff's camp is leveraging every advantage, including a financial edge and endorsements from figures like Flake, to secure a victory in November.
