Georgia GOP candidate abruptly ends press briefing amid son-in-law extremist controversy
During a rural Georgia press event, Representative Mike Collins walked out when reporters asked about his son-in-law’s antisemitic online activity, then shifted criticism to opponent Jon Ossoff.
At a press gathering in rural Georgia, Republican Representative and Senate candidate Mike Collins abruptly concluded the session when journalists inquired about his son-in-law, David Alan Scheer II, and the latter’s history of posting antisemitic and white-nationalist content online. Collins declined to address the allegations, pivoting to criticize his Democratic rival, Senator Jon Ossoff, accusing him of endorsing extremist movements, supporting policies that allow men in women’s locker rooms, and bearing responsibility for inflation and high prices.
One outlet previously reported that Scheer, who is married to Collins’ daughter Summer, runs a popular fitness-focused social-media presence with over 1.5 million followers and has shared propaganda for the Patriot Front hate group, as well as antisemitic and anti-Muslim rhetoric. The congressman has long been criticized for associating with far-right personalities, and Ossoff has demanded further disclosure of those links. Collins’ sudden departure and deflection highlight the growing scrutiny of extremist affiliations in the 2026 Georgia Senate race.
Why it matters
Voter confidence may be affected as a Senate candidate’s family ties to extremist propaganda become a campaign issue.
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