Jon Ossoff currently leads Rep. Mike Collins 51% to 42% in a Rasmussen poll published Sept. 15, with 6% undecided. Ossoff is the only Democrat defending a Senate seat in a state Donald Trump won in 2024, and he polls especially well with Black, Hispanic, higher-income voters and women. Collins leads among white voters and seniors and faces an ongoing ethics investigation and controversy over alleged ties to extremist figures. Early voting in Georgia runs Oct. 13–30; the general election is Nov. 3, with a potential runoff on Dec. 1.
Ossoff Holds Solid Lead in Georgia as Early Voting Nears
Ossoff's lead in Georgia remains strong one month out from early vote
Incumbent Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff remains firmly ahead of Republican Rep. Mike Collins as Georgia’s early voting period approaches, according to recent polls. The race has taken on national significance: Ossoff is the only Democratic senator seeking reelection in a state Donald Trump carried in 2024, and control of Congress could hinge on outcomes in the Peach State.
Poll Snapshot
A Rasmussen Reports survey published Sept. 15 shows Ossoff leading Collins 51% to 42% among likely Georgia voters, with 6% undecided. Rasmussen's results suggest that even if every undecided voter backed Collins, Ossoff would retain a winning margin in this matchup.
Where The Support Is
The Rasmussen poll highlights sharp demographic divides. Ossoff performs strongly with Black voters (84%), Hispanic voters (57%), higher-income voters (those earning more than $200,000 annually) and women (55%, a 15-point advantage over Collins). Collins commands majority support from white voters (60%) and holds a significant lead among voters aged 65 and older (59% to Ossoff's 40%).
Candidates And Controversies
Rep. Mike Collins, who represents Georgia's 10th Congressional District, is the Trump-endorsed Republican in the race. He faces an ongoing ethics investigation by the Office of Congressional Conduct into allegations including misuse of government funds to pay a staffer who allegedly did not perform work. Collins has also drawn criticism for reported ties to white supremacist figures and for repeatedly disputing the 2020 election results.
Sen. Jon Ossoff has faced criticism for not publicly distancing himself from some left-leaning figures, such as commentator Hasan Piker. He has nonetheless been mentioned as a possible 2028 presidential prospect, even as he has repeatedly said he does not plan to run.
Voter Priorities
Multiple statewide polls show the economy, inflation and the rising cost of living are voters' top concerns. Surveys by AARP and Fox News found about 40% of respondents listing the economy as a primary issue. The UGA School of Public and International Affairs singled out inflation and cost of living as the top concern, with jobs and taxes also ranking highly. Other issues such as crime, gun policy, the environment and abortion registered as lower priorities in several polls.
Important Dates And Voter Information
Early voting in Georgia runs Oct. 13 through Oct. 30; hours and polling locations vary by precinct, so voters should consult their My Voter Page for local information. The registration deadline for the general election is Oct. 5. The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3, with polls open statewide from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. If no candidate wins a majority, a runoff would be held on Dec. 1, with early voting for the runoff taking place Nov. 23–25.
Bottom line: With control of Congress potentially at stake, Georgia remains a high-stakes battleground. Current polling gives Ossoff a clear advantage, but the race will continue to draw national attention as early voting begins and Election Day approaches.
Contributing: Miguel Legoas, USA TODAY Deep South Connect
Reporter: Irene Wright, Atlanta Connect (USA TODAY Deep South Connect)
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