Tommy Thompson

Date of Birth: November 19, 1941

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Biography

Tommy George Thompson is an American politician who served as the 42nd Governor of Wisconsin from 1987 to 2001. He was born and raised in Elroy, Wisconsin. His tenure as governor is marked by significant welfare reform and educational funding initiatives. Following his time as Governor, Thompson served as the Secretary of Health and Human Services under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2005. He attempted a run for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 but withdrew early in the race. Thompson’s political career is noted for his pragmatic and sometimes bipartisan approach to governance.

5 Interesting Facts about Tommy Thompson

1. Thompson is credited with implementing Wisconsin Works (W-2), one of the first significant welfare reform programs in the United States.

2. He secured funding for the Wisconsin Education Trust Fund, which allocated resources to improve public schools in the state.

3. In 2007, he underwent a heart bypass surgery but returned to public life shortly after.

4. He has been involved in advocating for health information technology and pandemic preparedness.

5. Thompson holds the record as the longest-serving governor in Wisconsin’s history, having served for 14 years.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Tommy Thompson

1. “Empowering individuals to take responsibility for their own lives is the cornerstone of my political philosophy.”

2. “Welfare reform was not just about cutting costs, it was about changing lives.”

3. “Healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and we must strive to make it accessible to all.”

4. “Education is the foundation upon which we build our future.”

5. “Bipartisanship is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity for effective governance.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

$13 million

Children

Tommy Thompson and his wife, Sue Ann, have three children: Tommi Thompson, Kelli Thompson, and Jason Thompson. Each has pursued their own careers, with Kelli notably serving as the Wisconsin State Public Defender.