Atlanta, Georgia – Following a fight with pancreatic cancer, Bruce Thompson, Georgia’s Labor Commissioner, passed away at 59 years old. On Sunday Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones confirmed his death. Having been elected in 2022, Thompson, who revealed his diagnosis eight months ago, was in his first term in government.
Thompson assumed leadership of the Georgia Department of Labor during a turbulent time marked by an unheard-of increase in unemployment claims resulting from the pandemic. His leadership focused on revitalizing an agency that had struggled with management issues under his predecessor. Following a strong tenure in the state Senate where he has served since December 2013, he was elected following a contest against Democrat William Boddie and libertarian Emily Anderson.
Thompson’s office found nearly $105 million owing to the state treasury in August of the previous year, pointing out a serious error by former government officials. This revelation fit his larger project to overhaul Department of Labor operations in order of efficiency.
Thompson, highlighting his dedication to the position, stayed engaged in his responsibilities despite his diagnosis. Last June, he even spoke at the Georgia Republican Convention to show his commitment to his work and political views. Resilient by nature, Thompson openly revealed his health issues, saying the disease had spread to his liver but underlined his will to keep on battling.
“I can assure you I will continue to be who I have always been — a fighter,” Thompson said at the time. “From the start, my life has been full of what seem like insurmountable challenges, but I’ve never given up and this farm boy from Montana doesn’t intend to start now.”
Thompson was an Army veteran and entrepreneur who started multiple successful companies, including an insurance software company and automatic swimming pool cover companies, prior to his political career. His conservative approach on problems like abortion and support of adoption defined his legislative record and won him respect and appreciation from his voters and colleagues.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp praised Thompson’s unwavering spirit and contributions. Gov. Kemp released the following statement:
“Marty, the girls, and I are saddened by the passing of Commissioner Bruce Thompson and ask all Georgians to join us in praying for his wife, Becky, their children, and all those who knew and loved him during this difficult time.
“A successful business and respected leader of his community, Bruce was a passionate voice for what he believed in throughout his years of service to the people of Georgia.
“We are thankful for that commitment to our state and, like so many others, have been inspired by the strength and courage he showed over the past year in his fight against cancer.
“That bravery and determination, along with his impact on others, will not be forgotten.”
The political and administrative landscape of Georgia bears a long-lasting mark from Thompson’s tenure as Labor Commissioner and in the Georgia Senate. Two especially noteworthy features of his employment are his attempts to raise workforce performance and his management of the labor department during a pivotal time.
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He is survived by his wife Becky, daughter Faith, and son Max, who continue to cherish his memory along with numerous friends, supporters, and colleagues who have been touched by his leadership and resilience.
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To guarantee continuity in the leadership of the Department of Labor until the next election cycle in early 2027, Governor Kemp will name a replacement to serve the remaining Thompson term.
