Brief
Republicans Shift Senate Focus From Georgia and North Carolina to Defensive Seats
Republican strategists say dwindling chances in Georgia and North Carolina are prompting a defensive push in Texas and Ohio ahead of the 2026 midterms.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Atlanta (AP) – As the 2026 midterm elections approach, Republican officials are redirecting campaign resources away from Georgia and North Carolina toward states they consider safer, such as Texas and Ohio, according to a report by the Winnipeg Free Press.
The party, which once viewed the two Southern battlegrounds as key to retaining Senate control, now sees a "turnout problem" in North Carolina and limited fundraising for Georgia challenger Mike Collins, who is struggling to expand beyond the state's Republican base.
President Donald Trump, who narrowly carried both states in 2024, is slated to campaign for the incumbent Republican Senate candidate in Ohio while the GOP pours money into defending Texas, a reliably Republican seat.
Republican Senate leaders also criticize Trump for not ending the Iran war, handling high fuel prices, and joining the midterm race late, adding to internal frustrations.
Key facts
- Republicans are shifting campaign focus from Georgia and North Carolina to defending Texas and Ohio. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- North Carolina GOP strategist Paul Shoemaker cited a Republican turnout problem linked to economic concerns. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- President Donald Trump plans to campaign for the Republican Senate incumbent in Ohio. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- Georgia Senate candidate Mike Collins is struggling to broaden support beyond the state's Republican base. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- Republican leaders criticize Trump for not ending the Iran war and for late midterm campaign involvement. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Sources
- [1] winnipegfreepress.com — originally reported as “GOP doubts about Georgia and North Carolina have Republicans shifting focus in battle for Senate”
