Story perspectives

Ossoff Secures GOP Mayors' Endorsements, 92% Win Odds

8/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) received endorsements from Republican mayors Julie Smith of Tifton and Scott James Matheson of Valdosta.
Former Republican U.S. Senator Jeff Flake endorsed Ossoff, praising his character and respect for the institution.
Recent polls show Ossoff with 7-10% Republican support and a 52%-43% AARP lead over Collins.
The Cook Political Report rates the race Lean Democratic.
Prediction markets give Ossoff about a 92% chance of winning.

History

Historical Context

In 2008, conservative outlets like Insight (July 2007) and Colin Powell’s October 19 endorsement helped create “Obamacons,” with polls showing about 22 % of self-identified conservatives voting for Obama. That crossover led Republican mayors Tom Leppert and Phil Hardberger to back him, and a similar pattern appears in 2024 as Democrat Jon Ossoff gains endorsements from Republican mayors Julie Smith, Scott Matheson and former GOP senator Jeff Flake.

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Story summary

U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) received endorsements from Republican mayors Julie Smith of Tifton and Scott James Matheson of Valdosta.
Former Republican U.S. Senator Jeff Flake endorsed Ossoff, praising his character and respect for the institution.
Recent polls show Ossoff with 7-10% Republican support and a 52%-43% AARP lead over Collins.
The Cook Political Report rates the race Lean Democratic.
Prediction markets give Ossoff about a 92% chance of winning.

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