Doug Collins

Douglas Allen Collins is a former American politician who served as the U.S. Representative for Georgia's 9th congressional district from 2013 until 2021. A member of the Republican Party, Collins held a prominent role in the House of Representatives during his tenure, where he was known for his involvement in various legislative initiatives and committee assignments. Prior to his congressional career, he served in the Georgia House of Representatives and has a background in law, military service, and pastoral work.

Early life and career

Born on August 16, 1966, in Gainesville, Georgia, Doug Collins grew up in a family with a strong connection to public service; his father was a Georgia State Trooper for over three decades. Collins completed his secondary education at North Hall High School before pursuing higher education at North Georgia College & State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and criminal law in 1988. His academic journey continued at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where he received a Master of Divinity in 1996. Later, he obtained his Juris Doctor from Atlanta's John Marshall Law School in 2007.

Collins began his professional career as an intern for U.S. Representative Ed Jenkins, which provided him with early exposure to the workings of government. He subsequently worked as a salesman, focusing on hazardous material safety products for state and local governments in Georgia. His career in public service also included a significant role as a senior pastor at Chicopee Baptist Church from 1994 to 2005. In addition to his pastoral duties, he co-owned a retail scrapbooking store with his wife, Lisa. Collins has maintained a legal career and has served as a managing partner at the Collins and Csider law firm since 2010.

In terms of military service, Collins joined the United States Navy in the late 1980s, serving as a chaplain. Following the events of September 11, 2001, he joined the United States Air Force Reserve Command, where he has continued to serve as a chaplain and was promoted to the rank of colonel in 2023. His military service includes a deployment to Balad Air Base during the Iraq War in 2008.

House tenure

Doug Collins was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2007, representing the 27th district until 2013. He won his initial election unopposed after the incumbent decided to run for the Georgia State Senate. Collins was re-elected without opposition in both 2008 and 2010. During his time in the state legislature, he sponsored significant legislation, including a reform of the HOPE Scholarship program, which aimed to address budget concerns while maintaining educational opportunities for Georgia students. He also supported constitutional amendments to expand charter schools in the state.

In 2012, Collins transitioned to a congressional career by running for the newly drawn 9th congressional district. The incumbent, Tom Graves, chose to run in a different district, leaving the seat open. Collins faced competition in the Republican primary from local media personality Martha Zoller and retired principal Roger Fitzpatrick. He secured the nomination by finishing first in the primary and subsequently winning a runoff election. In the general election, Collins achieved a decisive victory over Democratic candidate Jody Cooley.

Throughout his four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, which began in 2013, Collins was known for his active participation in legislative matters and committee work. He faced a Democratic challenger in the 2018 election, where he won with a significant majority of the vote. His tenure in Congress was marked by a focus on issues relevant to his constituents in Georgia's 9th district, which is characterized as a strongly Republican area.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the U.S. House, Collins served on several important committees, including the House Committee on Rules and the House Committee on the Judiciary. His involvement in these committees allowed him to engage in a range of legislative issues, from regulatory reform to oversight of government operations. He was also a member of various subcommittees, including those focused on intellectual property, economic growth, and the federal workforce.

Collins was known for his participation in the U.S.-Japan Caucus, reflecting his interest in international relations and trade issues. His legislative focus often aligned with the priorities of the Republican Party, emphasizing limited government, economic development, and support for veterans.

In 2020, Collins announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate after the resignation of Johnny Isakson. He participated in the special election to complete Isakson's term but finished third in the state's nonpartisan blanket primary, which ultimately did not advance him to the runoff election.

After concluding his congressional service on January 3, 2021, Collins took on a role as legal counsel for former President Donald Trump. His career continued to evolve, and in November 2024, he was nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as the United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Collins was confirmed by the Senate and took office in February 2025.

Overall, Doug Collins' career has been marked by a blend of public service, legal expertise, and military commitment, reflecting a dedication to both his constituents and the broader interests of the nation.