Jon Ossoff (winner) vs. David Perdue

In a narrow runoff race, Democrat Jon Ossof led the way with 50.4 points to Republican incumbent Senator David Perdue’s 49.6 points. 

Ossoff is a 33-year-old CEO of Insight TWI who has never held public office, while Perdue was elected to the Senate in 2014. 

Ossoff’s platform included expanded public health insurance, a $15 minimum wage, a greater response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including a more aggressive health-care response, more aggressive short-term response and stimulus checks of $2000. Ossoff also aims to overturn the Citizens United vs. FEC Supreme Court ruling, by bringing attention to this issue, working to pass ballot measures in states and electing public officials whose views on this issue align with those of the End Citizens United organization. Other goals of Ossoff’s include reforming the criminal justice system, working towards clean energy, improving infrastructure and improving health care. 

On the other hand, Perdue has focused in on bringing more funding for COVID-19 relief to the state of Georgia, strengthening the economy and military and protecting veterans and individuals with pre-existing conditions, some of which his opponent has also supported in his platform. 

During the campaign, Ossoff also attacked Perdue’s financial records, arguing that the allegiance of his opponent had been bought by several industries, including insurance, pharmacy and fossil fuel corporations. Ossoff has also accused Perdue of utilizing his position of power as a Senator to profit off the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Perdue has denied this allegation. In efforts to combat this attack, Perdue has tied Ossoff to various progressive, liberal movements, including the Green New Deal, Medicare for All and defunding the police. 

Ossoff is Jewish and the son of an immigrant, as well as the first Jewish senator from the Deep South since the late 1800’s, and his win further demonstrated the transition towards inclusivity in Georgia.