Two years ago, Georgia’s U.S. Senate races captivated the nation. The sequel in 2022 is doing the same.

Democrat Raphael Warnock defeated incumbent Republican Kelly Loeffler in a January 2021 runoff, which helped give Democrats control of the U.S. Senate and a rare statewide win for the party. Now Warnock is set to face former University of Georgia football player Herschel Walker in a Dec. 6 runoff after neither crossed the 50% threshold needed to win the office in November. Warnock came closest with 49.4% to Walker’s 48.5%. Libertarian Chase Oliver won 2% in November but will not be in the runoff.

Polls continue to show a close race.

Warnock, who is the most prolific fundraiser in the Senate, has collected more than $166 million in campaign contributions this election cycle and has about $30 million in the bank. Walker has raised more than $57 million and has $10 million in the bank.

- Where the candidates for Georgia’s Senate seat stand on the issues

- Herschel Walker’s campaign in turmoil as adult son accuses him of violence, lying

- Georgia candidates draw battle lines ahead of November race

- Warnock’s record-breaking fundraising sends national message

- Herschel Walker’s business record reveals creditor lawsuits, exaggerated claims

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Georgia Republican Party Chair Josh McKoon, pictured speaking at an election night watch party in Atlanta in November, said his some in his party still lack confidence in election integrity and want more changes. In an AJC poll in December, nearly 98% of those surveyed who identified as Republicans said they believe their vote was accurately counted. (Jason Getz/AJC 2024)

Credit: Jason Getz/AJC

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com