Trump heads to Georgia to campaign against Sen. Jon Ossoff

Former President Donald Trump is campaigning in Georgia on Friday, October 16, 2026, in a pivotal state ahead of the crucial November midterm elections. Trump's visit includes a rally in Dalton where he is set to appear with Republican Senate candidate Mike Collins and gubernatorial nominee Rick Jackson, aiming to boost Republican enthusiasm. The state is a critical battleground, especially as Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff seeks re-election, being the only Democratic senator on the ballot in a state Trump won in 2024.

The Georgia Senate race, pitting incumbent Jon Ossoff against Republican Congressman Mike Collins, is proving to be one of the nation's most closely watched and expensive contests. Both candidates, and by extension Trump, have engaged in increasingly personal and sharp exchanges in the lead-up to the election, with Ossoff criticizing Trump's policies and priorities, while Collins's campaign has welcomed Trump's attention.

The midterm elections, which could significantly impact the balance of power in Washington, see Republicans aiming to unseat Ossoff, who first won his seat in a special election in early 2021. Despite the competitive nature of the race and being a top target for Republicans, recent polls have shown Ossoff with a lead over Collins.