May 24, 2022 - Politics & Policy

Herschel Walker wins Georgia's GOP nomination for Senate

Emma Hurt

Herschel Walker. Photo: Elijah Nouvelage/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Herschel Walker has won Georgia's Republican Senate primary and will face incumbent Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock in November, the AP reported.

Why it matters: Republicans view Warnock's seat as a top pick-up opportunity to help take control of the upper chamber. Public polling has shown the November matchup to be extremely close.

The big picture: While Walker has received strong backing from former president Donald Trump, Walker also enjoys near-hero status among Georgia football fans for leading the University of Georgia to a national championship win in 1980.

The intrigue: He won the primary despite criticism from his Republican opponents about past domestic abuse allegations and a scrutinized business history.

One opponent, state Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black, told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution he would not support Walker as the nominee.

Catch up quick: Walker has been able to float above the fray dividing Republican politics these days, earning the support of both Trump and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.)

What's next: Walker heads into the general election with more than $7 million cash on hand. But Warnock's campaign has reported a whopping $23 million.

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Herschel Walker wins Georgia's GOP nomination for Senate

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