Dem senator says 'zero interest in running for president' in debate with GOP opponent

Incumbent Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., who has repeatedly shot down the prospect of mounting a 2028 presidential bid, reiterated his position during a Tuesday night U.S. Senate debate.

Atlanta Journal-Constitution chief political reporter Greg Bluestein pressed Ossoff about the issue during the Atlanta Press Club U.S. Senate debate at the Georgia Public Broadcasting studios.

"Senator Ossoff, you've repeatedly said you won't run for president in 2028, but your name continues to surface as a potential contender," Bluestein said, adding, "So will you pledge right now tonight to serve your full six-year term if you win?"

"Yes, I will," Ossoff replied. "I have zero interest in running for president. I'm not running for president. I'm running for re-election to the Senate."

The Democrat faces Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., in the Peach State contest, a Republican congressman who has served in the U.S. since early 2023.

Collins pushed during the debate, saying Ossoff "is running for president" and will "be your DSA candidate," apparently referring to the Democratic Socialists of America.

Ossoff has served in the U.S. Senate since early 2021.

While President has endorsed Collins, former President Barack Obama is backing Ossoff.

The state — which currently has a Republican governor and two Democratic senators — went to Trump in the 2016 and 2024 presidential elections and to Joe Biden in 2020.