In a move that marks another step in Georgia's political landscape, Governor Brian P. Kemp has appointed Bárbara Rivera Holmes as the new Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Labor. Holmes, who brings a hefty resume from her time leading the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce and her previous role in economic development, will assume office on April 4, filling the gap left by Bruce Thompson, who passed away in November of last year, as reported by an official press release on the state's website.
While announcing the appointment, Governor Kemp praised Holmes for her "proven track record of success in economic development and education" and expressed his confidence in her ability to extend this dedication to the state labor department, the governor shared his sentiments that Holmes’ leadership would benefit "the hardworking people of Georgia," as she has done for the residents of Dougherty County and beyond, and it's sent out warm thanks to Louis DeBroux and the team at the Department of Labor for maintaining the Department's momentum after Thompson's untimely passing, as detailed by the state's website.
Endorsements for Bárbara Rivera Holmes have poured in from various corners of the Georgia government, with figures like former Governor Nathan Deal, Lt. Governor Burt Jones, and Speaker of the House Jon Burns vocalizing their support. In a statement obtained by the state's website, Deal mentioned Holmes’ extensive experience in sectors crucial to the state, while Burns highlighted her invaluable expertise in small business advocacy. Attorney General Chris Carr and many others have also welcomed her appointment, with Carr acknowledging her partnership in fighting fraud and cybercrimes across Southwest Georgia.
Holmes has a diverse background which ranges from journalism, where she earned accolades for her work with The Albany Herald, to her tenure as vice president of the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, where she was instrumental in expanding business opportunities in the area, in her own words she has been "committed to creating opportunities and building stronger communities by fostering partnerships and statewide alliances that drive job growth, tap into our state’s talent and enhance Georgia’s competitiveness," as per her statement on the state's website, and her previous work evidently lays out a foundation for her upcoming role as commissioner with everyone from the University System of Georgia's former regent to agriculture and insurance commissioners singing praises of her historic appointment.
