Pence bucks Trump & backs rival GOPer in Georgia race

Former Vice President Mike Pence endorsed Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on Friday ahead of his contentious Republican primary in a major new break with former President Donald Trump.

Calling Kemp “a man dedicated to faith, family and the people of Georgia,” Pence said he would attend a rally next weekend for the governor as he battles a pro-Trump primary challenge from former Sen. David Perdue (R-Ga.)

Pence (left) praised Kemp as “one of the most successful conservative governors” and ticked off a list of right-wing achievements.

“He built a safer and stronger Georgia by cutting taxes, empowering parents and investing in teachers, funding law enforcement, and standing strong for the right to life,” Pence said.

The former president despises Kemp (right) because the governor refused to join his scheme to overturn the results of his historic election loss to President Biden in the fast-changing Peach State.

Trump calls Kemp a Republican in name only turncoat to his MAGA cause. He recruited Perdue to run against Kemp as part of his campaign to purge the GOP of all critics of his campaign of election lies.

But Kemp has proven a resilient candidate and has maintained a strong lead over Perdue in polls ahead of the May 24 primary.

The winner will face Democratic voting rights activist Stacey Abrams in the fall general election.

Pence’s endorsement amounts to a significant shot across the bow at his former boss - to the surprise of no one.

The two men have barely spoken to one another since the former vice president insisted on completing his constitutional duty on Jan. 6, 2021, and presided over the congressional confirmation of President Biden’s election.