Florida State Democratic Senator Geraldine Thompson passed away Thursday from complications after knee replacement surgery, leaving the political community in shock. A dedicated advocate for education, healthcare, and civil rights, she also founded Orlando’s Wells’Built Museum of African American ,
History and Culture.Thompson served nearly two decades in the Florida Legislature, holding key roles, including vice chair of the Appropriations Committee on Pre-K-12 Education. Respected across party lines, she was a strong voice for Orlando. Her passing coincides with Senators Tina Smith and Gary Peters announcing they won’t seek re-election in 2026, marking a major shift in Democratic leadership.
