Tommy G. Thompson was the longest serving governor in Wisconsin history. He defeated incumbent Democratic Governor Tony Earl in 1986 and then won re-election an unprecedented three times: in 1990, 1994, and 1998.

Born and raised in Elroy, Wisconsin, Thompson first entered public service in 1966 when, at the age of 24, he won election to the State Assembly. Voters in Thompson’s central Wisconsin district elected him as their representative for ten consecutive terms. Republican colleagues voted Thompson assistant minority leader in 1973 and minority leader in 1981. 

During his 14 years as governor, Thompson worked to revitalize Wisconsin’s economy. He also gained national attention for his efforts at reforming welfare, education, and health care. Thompson served as chairman for several national organizations, such as the Amtrak Reform Board and the National Governors' Association. He received awards throughout his career, including Governing Magazine’s Most Valuable Public Official Award and the Horatio Alger Foundation’s Distinguished American Award.

Governor Thompson resigned in January 2001 to become U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services in the first administration of President George W. Bush.