**Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson Passes Away at 59**

In a sad turn of events, Bruce Thompson, the Georgia Labor Commissioner, has passed away at the age of 59, as confirmed by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones. A widely respected leader, Thompson had publicly shared his battle with pancreatic cancer eight months ago. Despite his health struggles, he remained committed to his role, even speaking at the Georgia Republican Convention in June after another scheduled speaker canceled.

Thompson took office as Labor Commissioner in 2023 after being elected in 2022. During his tenure, he tackled significant challenges within the agency, which had struggled under a surge of unemployment claims during the pandemic. In August 2023, Thompson announced a major finding: over $105 million that should have been transferred to the state treasury, which he claimed had been improperly held back.

An Army veteran and successful entrepreneur, Thompson had founded several businesses, including ventures in swimming pool covers, insurance, and commercial development. His political career began when he was elected to the Georgia State Senate in December 2013, a position he held through four successive terms. As a senator, he was known for his staunch opposition to abortion and strong advocacy for adoption.

Governor Brian Kemp will appoint a successor to carry out the remainder of Thompson's four-year term, set to end in early 2027. Kemp praised Thompson as a dedicated public servant and a passionate advocate for his beliefs. "We are thankful for his commitment to our state and have been inspired by the strength and courage he showed in his fight against cancer," Kemp stated.

Lieutenant Governor Jones also highlighted Thompson’s Christian faith and noted that his tenure as commissioner saw significant improvements in workforce outcomes for Georgians. Bruce Thompson is survived by his wife Becky, daughter Faith, and son Max.