Georgia Republican leaders and strategists have grown increasingly concerned that Rep. Mike Collins' bid to unseat Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff in November is faltering and risks dragging down other GOP candidates on the ballot.

Collins secured the Republican nomination in a June runoff primary after receiving a late endorsement from President Donald Trump. He defeated former football coach Derek Dooley, who had backing from Gov. Brian Kemp. The contest set up a high-stakes general election in a state Trump carried in 2024, with control of the Senate potentially on the line.

Since entering the general election phase, Collins has faced a series of challenges. Reports have highlighted a House ethics investigation into allegations involving his former chief of staff and the use of congressional resources. Additional issues include repeated staff turnover and recent scrutiny over social media activity by his son-in-law.

Fundraising presents another obstacle. Collins reported raising $4.9 million through late May with about $1.2 million on hand. In contrast, Ossoff has amassed over $60 million and held roughly $32 million in cash as of April.

Strategists worry these factors have limited Collins' ability to expand beyond his base and compete effectively statewide. Some anonymous Republican operatives described the race as a severe uphill battle, questioning the level of outside support Collins might receive.

The concerns extend to down-ballot races, with fears that a weak performance at the top of the ticket could suppress turnout or invite Democratic attacks on other Republican candidates. Ossoff, seeking a second term, has positioned himself as a strong fundraiser and has benefited from the controversies surrounding his opponent.

Collins has emphasized his record on immigration and support for Trump's agenda, including legislation like the Laken Riley Act. Party officials have called for unity behind the nominee to focus on defeating Ossoff.

The November election remains months away, and both campaigns are expected to intensify efforts in the coming weeks.