GOP divides and alliances emerge ahead of Georgia runoff

Key Points:

• Georgia's Republican primary runoff races for U.S. Senate and governor reveal deep party divisions, with key figures like President Trump and Governor Brian Kemp endorsing different candidates, highlighting internal GOP fault lines.
• Kemp supports Lt. Gov. Burt Jones for governor and former football coach Derek Dooley for Senate, emphasizing experience and electability, while Trump backs Jones for governor and late-endorses Rep. Mike Collins for Senate, reflecting their complicated relationship.
• The split endorsements extend to grassroots leaders and influential figures like Senator Ted Cruz, who supports businessman Rick Jackson for governor, putting him at odds with Trump and Kemp.
• Candidates emphasize their outsider or insider status to appeal to voters, with Dooley and Jackson promoting outsider credentials, while Kemp argues for continuity in state leadership to maintain Republican success in Georgia.
• Conservative activists note a shift from blind loyalty to Trump, focusing instead on supporting candidates who are both conservative and have a viable chance to win in the general election.