Georgia’s Senate race heats up as four candidates pitch to Savannah voters

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Georgia’s U.S. Senate race is starting to take shape, with four candidates making their case to voters in Savannah on Wednesday.

The Chatham Area Republican Women hosted a luncheon at the Savannah Country Club, giving attendees a chance to hear directly from the contenders vying for the seat currently held by Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Georgia).

Buddy Carter highlights business background

U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Georgia) spoke first, emphasizing his business and pharmacy experience and pointing to his record in the U.S. House.

“Right now we do not have anyone in the United States Senate that represents your values. We have two Democrats who do not represent your values,” Carter said.

Mike Collins points to port work and legislation

U.S. Rep. Mike Collins (R-Georgia) followed, citing his work at the Port of Brunswick and highlighting two pieces of legislation.

Collins sponsored Dalilah’s Law, which would require people in the country illegally to surrender their commercial driver’s licenses and meet English proficiency standards.

He also introduced the Laken Riley Act, which Collins said has contributed to the removal of criminals from communities.

“In the one-year term it’s been out there, it’s been responsible for removing 20,000 thugs and criminals from our streets, making it safer,” Collins said.

Christina Clement focuses on economic justice

Write-in candidate Rev. Dr. Christina Clement, with the Loc Nation Party, spoke next. She focused on restitution policy, economic justice, and what she called the Black Dollar Initiative, aimed at restoring access and equity in historically underfunded communities.

“Leadership is not about waiting until you’re in the position. It’s about delivering different results when the opportunity is in front of you,” Clement said.

Jonathan McColumn cites military leadership

Brig. Gen. Jonathan McColumn rounded out the group, arguing that his decades of military experience make him the right leader for the job.

“Running for the Senate is not about me. It’s about you. It’s about economics, it’s about your education, your kids, pulling people together under one umbrella. The one thing Jon Ossoff hasn’t done. He’s separated the people of God and the people of Georgia,” McColumn said.

Georgia’s Senate primary is May 19th.