Grounded in Service. Focused on Atlanta.
“I’m running because I’m all in on Atlanta.
I’m a diligent and hard worker by nature, an optimist and true believer by nurture, a problem solver by training, and a policy wonk by experience.
I want to help Atlanta and all its residents succeed beyond all imaginations.”
All In on Atlanta. All Out for You.
Thomas Worthy is a respected public servant, legal expert, and executive leader who’s spent his career making big systems work better for real people. Whether it’s justice reform, healthcare, or transit, he’s focused on getting things done that actually improve lives across Atlanta.
Building a More Just Georgia.
Thomas earned his undergraduate degree from Washington and Lee University before receiving his law degree from the University of Virginia. Early in his legal career, he helped lead nationally recognized justice reform initiatives focused on reentry, reducing recidivism, and smarter sentencing policies. The reforms led to measurable declines in repeat offenses, reduced prison populations, and earned national praise as a model for effective, bipartisan criminal justice policy that improved outcomes for individuals and communities.
Expanding Access, Improving Lives.
Today, Thomas serves as Chief Public Policy Officer at Piedmont Healthcare, the largest health system in the Southeast. In this role, he advises the CEO and Board of Directors on healthcare policy, compliance, and administrative law. Under his leadership, the organization has expanded its role as a healthcare provider, economic driver, and community partner. He oversees a $900 million community benefit program and a team that represents more than 45,000 employees across 22 hospitals. Through this community benefit program, Thomas supports grants and partnerships with local nonprofits and administers hospital programs that offer critical health services to at-risk and underserved populations.
Moving Atlanta Forward.
Since 2017, Thomas has served on the board of directors of MARTA. As Chairman from 2023 to 2024, he helped negotiate the biggest pay increase for workers in two decades while keeping the budget balanced and improving the rider experience. He also helped secure a AAA bond rating, which is the public transit version of a Michelin star.
Recognized for Results.
Named one of Georgia’s most influential attorneys six years in a row by James Magazine, Thomas has also been recognized with the “40 Under 40” Legal Rising Stars award and the Distinguished Young Alumni Award from Washington and Lee University. He appreciates the accolades, but what really matters to him is the impact his work has on people, communities, and the city he loves.
Serving Beyond the Job Description.
Thomas has lent his time and expertise to a number of nonprofit and civic boards, including:
- Georgia Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
- Atlanta Police Foundation Board of Directors
- YMCA of Metro Atlanta Board of Directors
- Odyssey Family Counseling Center (Chairman)
- Criminal Justice Coordinating Council of Georgia
- Georgia Judicial Nominating Commission
- Georgia Council on Criminal Justice Reform (Co-Chair)
- Georgia Supreme Court Committee on Justice for Children
- Appellate Jurisdiction Review Commission of Georgia
Today, Thomas and his wife are raising their three children, and their miniature dachshund in North Buckhead. He remains committed to low taxes, high-quality public services, and the simple joy of walking your dog without stepping in a pothole.
What are five words that describe you?
Curious, thoughtful, pragmatic, kind, and funny (or at least my kids think so).
Why are you running?
I love this city—its history, its promise, and the people who make it extraordinary. Atlanta has given so much to me and my family, and I’m ready to give back with everything I’ve got.
I believe Atlanta has been on the right path for many years, thanks in large part to the “Atlanta Way”—a legacy built by some of our nation’s greatest heroes and carefully nurtured by the generation that followed.
I’m running because I'm all in on Atlanta. I’m a diligent and hard worker by nature, an optimist and true believer by nurture, a problem solver by training, and a policy wonk by experience. I want to help Atlanta and all its residents succeed beyond all imaginations.
What qualities do you look for in a strong public leader?
Like all of us, no leader is perfect. But I’m most inspired by public officials who lead with courage, humility, and a servant-leader heart. I admire those who make tough decisions with grace, treat people with thoughtfulness and civility, and carry themselves with quiet strength and spines of steel. Even when I don’t agree with every decision, I respect leaders who are guided by clear reasoning and a focus on the greater good. I especially value strong communicators who remain accessible and responsive to the people they serve. These are the qualities I strive to reflect in my own public service.
Why did you choose to live in District 7, and any favorite neighborhood restaurants?
We originally fell in love with the district for its mix of vibrant neighborhoods nestled right in the middle of the city’s business and social hubs. It feels like a peaceful oasis in the heart of Atlanta, while still offering all the benefits of big-city living.
We chose to stay and raise our family in North Buckhead because we didn’t want to lose that connectivity within the city. It’s easy to get around, the cultural diversity is rich, and the schools are excellent.
When we’re out with the kids, you’ll probably find us having dinner at Wing Factory. For date nights, we enjoy St. Cecilia, Bones, and Bucket Shop. We’re especially excited about the opening of the new Path 400 segment, which makes it even easier to walk to nearby restaurants and shops. Our kids also had a great time watching the “big machines” during construction.
