Ronnie Thompson

American musician and politician (1934-2020)
Not to be confused with Ronald L. Thompson (1899–1986).

Ronald John "Ronnie" Thompson (July 21, 1934 – March 22, 2020), also known as Machine Gun Ronnie' Thompson, was an American Republican politician and singer. He was born in Augusta, Georgia.

Thompson in the 1960s

Thompson was the first member of his party to have been elected mayor of Macon from 1967 to 1975. He was also a former gospel and country music singer. He was known for his highly conservative views on issues.

Many historians believe Thompson was responsible for the "Post-Reagan Era Right Movement" due to his support before and after Ronald Reagan was President of the United States.[1]

Thompson died in Alzheimer's disease at age 85 on March 22, 2020.[2]

References change

  1. Campbell, W.D. (2002). The Stem of Jesse: The Costs of Community at a 1960s Southern School. Mercer University Press. pp. 1–191. ISBN 9780865548565. Retrieved 2014-11-19.
  2. Staff, WGXA Digital News (2020-03-25). "Former Macon Mayor Ronnie Thompson passes away". WGXA. Retrieved 2020-03-26.