Georgia Governor selects Kelly Loeffler to fill Senator Isakson's seat
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Atlanta owner Kelly Loeffler (right) talks with Dream General Manager Chris Sienko (left) during the WNBA game between the Las Vegas Aces and the Atlanta Dream on September 5th, 2019 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, GA. /Getty Images

Atlanta owner Kelly Loeffler (right) talks with Dream General Manager Chris Sienko (left) during the WNBA game between the Las Vegas Aces and the Atlanta Dream on September 5th, 2019 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, GA. /Getty Images

The Governor of the state of Georgia, Brian Kemp, on Wednesday selected businesswoman Kelly Loeffler as his choice to fill the seat held by outgoing Senator Johnny Isakson.

The move is expected to antagonize certain allies of President Donald Trump who expected him to select Rep. Doug Collins, a notable backer of the president as the House of Representatives holds its impeachment inquiry.

Isakson is scheduled to retire at the end of 2019 due to health reasons.

Kemp took to Twitter to express his confidence Loeffler, who has never contested for office or served in government. 

"Kelly is a patriot who believes in the greatness of America & a real conservative who'll defend life, protect the Second Amendment, champion pro-growth policies, support @POTUS & put hardworking Georgians first!" Kemp wrote.

"I know I will have to earn the support of hardworking Georgians with my votes, priorities, and actions. I can promise you this: no one will fight harder for our state, our president, and our conservative values. I will not tire. I will never back down." Loeffler said on Twitter.

Senate Majority Mitch McConnell also welcomed Loeffler's selection to replace Isakson.

"Ms. Loeffler has an impressive record in business and community leadership. I am confident she is well prepared to continue Sen. Isakson's historic legacy of advocating for veterans, strengthening our national defense, and fighting for middle-class families." 

Loeffler, only the second female senator from Georgia, will face reelection in 2020.

Source(s): NBC