Full Breakdown
Controversy Surrounds Ryan Millsap's Congressional Bid Amid Allegations
4/13/2026, 11:47:28 PM
Allegations of Fraud and Racism
Ryan Millsap, a film studio founder and Republican candidate for Congress in Georgia's 10th Congressional District, faces serious allegations that could impact his political aspirations. In 2017, Millsap was accused of forging the signature of former Major League Baseball All-Star Jason Heyward to attract investors for a land deal. The lawsuit, filed by Telos Capital LLC, claimed that Millsap fraudulently induced the firm to invest $8.5 million in a 52-acre property outside Atlanta. The case was settled in 2018 after a private investigator confirmed that Heyward's signature was indeed a forgery taken from a trading card.
Millsap, who founded Blackhall Studios—recently rebranded as Shadowbox Studios—has also been embroiled in controversy due to a trove of racist and antisemitic text messages that surfaced during a legal dispute with his former lawyer, John Da Grosa Smith. These messages included derogatory remarks about Black individuals and antisemitic comments, which Millsap later described as deeply troubling.
Context of the Congressional Race
Millsap is competing against state Rep. Houston Gaines and plumber Jeff Baker in the Republican primary scheduled for May 19. The seat was vacated by Rep. Mike Collins, who is running for the U.S. Senate. As Millsap campaigns, he has pledged to invest $4 million in his bid for Congress, positioning himself as a conservative fighter aligned with former President Donald Trump.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the allegations, Millsap's campaign has dismissed the claims as fabrications aimed at undermining his candidacy. Millsap stated, “These claims are made up out of whole cloth. Full stop,” emphasizing his commitment to combating what he describes as leftist movements. His campaign further asserted that the allegations are politically motivated, intended to derail his efforts to represent conservative values.
Conversely, the Gaines campaign has criticized Millsap, stating, “Taken together, they are disqualifying. This district deserves better.” They argue that voters are seeking a candidate who can deliver results and work effectively with Republican leadership.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about Millsap's character and fitness for office, citing the serious nature of the allegations against him. The racist and antisemitic messages, in particular, have drawn significant backlash, with opponents arguing that such behavior is incompatible with public service. The controversy surrounding Millsap's past actions may influence voter sentiment as the primary approaches.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Millsap has denied the allegations and characterized them as politically motivated, the existence of documented evidence, including court filings and text messages, presents a complex narrative. The settlement of the fraud case and the details of the racist texts have raised questions about Millsap's integrity and suitability for public office.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These claims are made up out of whole cloth.” — Ryan Millsap, Congressional Candidate
- “Taken together, they are disqualifying,” the Gaines campaign said in a statement.” — Gaines Campaign Statement
As the primary election nears, the implications of these allegations will likely play a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Georgia's 10th Congressional District.
