Gov. Brian Kemp (R-GA) has opted not to run for the U.S. Senate in Georgia’s 2026 election, a decision that could reshape the GOP’s path to unseating Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and trigger a high-stakes Republican primary.

Kemp, a popular Republican, has decided against a run after sitting down last month with Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC). 

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The governor told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he wouldn’t run for Senate in 2026, citing personal reasons, but pledged to support the GOP in finding and backing a strong, conservative candidate who can win.

“After those discussions, I have decided that being on the ballot next year is not the right decision for me and my family,” he said.

Several Georgia Republicans have been positioning themselves for a possible Senate run even before Kemp announced his decision. Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) has hinted he might enter the race if Kemp steps aside, while Reps. Rich McCormick (R-GA) and Mike Collins (R-GA) told Fox News they are keeping their options open. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) has not ruled out a run, either.

In February, state Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper shared on X that he met with the NRSC, and Insurance Commissioner John King told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution last year that he would seriously consider a campaign, but only if Kemp chooses not to run.

This is a developing story.