Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff of Georgia is ramping up criticism of President Donald Trump, warning that the “chaos and uncertainty” surrounding Trump’s economic policies is damaging Georgia’s economy and creating instability for businesses and families.

Speaking with The Associated Press at Dobbins Air Reserve Base on Saturday, Ossoff emphasized that the lack of clear economic direction from the White House is the most serious challenge facing his state. His comments come as he gears up for the critical Georgia Senate race in 2026, where he is expected to be a top target for Republicans.

“In this moment, businesses and households can’t make sound financial plans because they don’t know what Trump’s policy will be from one hour to the next,” Ossoff said. “This chaos is putting Georgia’s economy at serious risk.”

Ossoff Faces High Stakes in 2026 Senate Re-Election Battle

Ossoff, 38, flipped a Republican-held seat in a 2021 runoff, helping Democrats seize Senate control for four years. Now, he’s the only Democrat running for re-election in 2026 in a state Trump carried in 2024, making him a prime GOP target.

The Republican field remains on pause as two-term Gov. Brian Kemp weighs a possible Senate bid. Ossoff refused to discuss potential matchups directly, saying only, “I am more than prepared for any challenger.”

Trump’s ‘Authoritarian Impulses’ a Threat, Ossoff Says

When asked whether Trump’s leadership style threatens democracy, Ossoff didn’t hold back.

“We’ve never seen a president use the federal government to attack critics and political opponents like this,” Ossoff said. “It’s un-American. Regardless of politics, every American should be alarmed.”

He warned that unchecked presidential power today could have dangerous consequences for the future, noting that eventually “the shoe will be on the other foot” when a Democrat returns to the White House.

Democrats Must Focus on Protecting Vital Programs

With limited power in Congress, Ossoff said Democrats must focus on protecting essential programs under threat.

He criticized Trump’s plans to cut Medicaid, Social Security, and veterans’ services, emphasizing how vital those programs are to Georgia:

• Medicaid covers 40% of Georgia’s children and 50% of births.

• Medicaid supports 70% of seniors in nursing homes.

“These proposed cuts aren’t popular anywhere in Georgia,” Ossoff said. “Part of my job is informing the public and rallying opposition.”

Ossoff Defends Vote for Laken Riley Act

Ossoff also discussed his support for the Laken Riley Act, a bill mandating detention of unauthorized immigrants accused of violent crimes. The law was named for a Georgia nursing student whose 2024 death sparked national outrage.

“I believe the American people expect secure borders,” Ossoff said. “While I support strong enforcement against threats to public safety, I oppose mass raids, due process violations, and inhumane treatment of immigrants.”

He criticized the Biden administration’s handling of border policies but warned against extreme measures proposed by Trump-era officials.