ATLANTA, Nov. 25, 2024 — Bruce Thompson, Georgia’s labor commissioner and a dedicated public servant known for his transformative leadership and open-door policy, passed away yesterday after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 59.

Thompson, a former Republican state senator and military veteran, was elected labor commissioner in 2022. He took office in January 2023, inheriting an agency plagued by internal challenges and a tarnished reputation. Undaunted, Thompson embraced the herculean task of rebuilding the Georgia Department of Labor, focusing on culture, modernization and service to Georgians.

Upon his arrival, Thompson removed barriers — both physical and metaphorical — by eliminating badge-only elevator access to the executive suite, signaling his commitment to transparency and accessibility. He emphasized trust and collaboration, reshaping an agency with a reduced budget and workforce into a more dynamic and customer-focused operation.

Thompson was deeply passionate about serving Georgia’s workforce, overseeing a state with a record-low unemployment rate and rapidly growing job market. He prioritized modernizing the agency to better serve tech-savvy younger generations while ensuring inclusivity for older, rural populations. His strategic approach included revitalizing facilities, enhancing the customer experience and fostering a positive workplace culture.

Thompson was widely respected for his business acumen, honed through years of turning around companies and building successful organizations.

He began his political career in 2013 when he was elected to the Georgia State Senate, representing District 14. Over the course of his Senate tenure, he chaired a number of committees, including the Science & Technology Committee, the Veterans and Homeland Security Committee and the Economic Development and Tourism Committee.

As a state senator, Thompson championed conservative values while maintaining a reputation for bipartisan cooperation. His devotion to the North Georgia community and the broader state earned him admiration across the political spectrum.

His legislative accomplishments included championing groundbreaking bills such as the Heartbeat Bill, which banned abortion after six weeks. He was named “Legislator of the Year” many times.

Gov. Brian Kemp said Sunday: “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 businessman 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,” said Kemp, who is expected to appoint a replacement to serve out Thompson’s seat until an election is held in 2026.

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones also expressed his condolences. “Jan and I are heartbroken to hear that Commissioner Bruce Thompson passed away earlier today. I had the honor of serving in the Senate with Bruce for several years and enjoyed getting to know him. He served his constituents well and always followed the word of the Lord.

“Bruce always lived his life according to the teachings of the Bible and never feared from spreading his love for the church with others. He continued his life of public service as Georgia’s Department of Labor Commissioner, where he made significant changes to improve workforce outcomes for citizens across the state,” Jones said. “Bruce will be dearly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.” 

Bruce Thompson leaves behind a legacy of leadership, transformation and service. He is survived by his wife Becky and their children Faith and Max.

A memorial service to celebrate Thompson’s life and achievements will be announced soon.

State Affairs senior reporter Tammy Joyner contributed to this report.