Despite being challenged by four other Republicans, Doug Collins of Gainesville handily won re-election as Georgia's Ninth District Congressman in Tuesday's General Primary.
Collins, who faces no Democratic opposition in November, will return to Washington, D.C. for a third term in office.
Collins took 61.47% of the vote in the contest. His closest opponent was former Congressman Paul Broun, who ended the night with 22.09% of the ballots cast.
In his victory speech to supporters at Luna's restaurant in downtown Gainesville, Collins said he was humbled to once again represent the district.
"We're going to continue to fight the liberal agenda in Washington, we're going to keep fighting for what matters here in Gainesville, in Hall County and all across the Ninth District - every county," said Collins.
While Collins did not mention his GOP challengers directly, he did note the harsh tone the campaign often took. Opponents Roger Fitzpatrick, Mike Scupin and Bernie Fontaine - all active in the local Tea Party movement - criticized Collins at town hall meetings and on local radio for his 'yay' vote for a recent omnibus spending bill.
"Our country is no longer satisfied," said Collins told supporters after his win. "In this district, the Ninth District, the people of the Ninth own this district - not any media outlet, not any talk show."
Despite being criticized for being an establishment candidate, Collins told supporters he would continue to fight for conservatism on Capitol Hill.
"Ladies and gentleman, we are in a mess by the liberal agenda in Washington, but Doug Collins will stand for conservative North Georgia values and tonight the people of the Ninth District confirmed that for us."
