Jon Ossoff, usually a head down senator, has found a formula to excite Democrats
Senator Jon Ossoff of Georgia is gaining national attention for his unique political style and ability to excite Democratic voters. Despite representing a competitive state, his focus on anti-corruption and sharp rhetoric against Donald Trump has fueled speculation about his future political ambitions.
Why it matters
Ossoff's success in a purple state provides a potential blueprint for Democrats looking to reconnect with voters and regain congressional majorities.
ATLANTA — On paper, Senator Jon Ossoff of Georgia should be among the most vulnerable incumbents this year. He is the only Senate Democrat defending a seat in a state President Trump won in 2024.
But the race has not turned into the nail-biter most anticipated, and Democrats outside Georgia are taking notice – at a time when the party is debating how to escape the political wilderness and win back a majority in Congress.
"He reminds me of Obama, honestly," says 28-year-old Courtney Rogers, who came of age as the Obama years gave way to Trump. In Ossoff, the first millennial senator, Rogers sees traces of an earlier era.
Elections With just a few primary elections to go, the competitive Senate map keeps shifting Rogers was waiting to buy an Ossoff T-shirt at an Atlanta rally this month. Nearby Rebecca Bruno and Beth Louise arrived already wearing theirs.
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