Tyler Perry is taking on a new role in Georgia politics.
The filmmaker and entertainment mogul has been named a co-chair of Georgia Gov.-elect Keisha Lance Bottoms’ transition team, joining a group of influential business executives, political figures and community leaders tasked with helping the former Atlanta mayor prepare to lead the state.
Bottoms announced the team Friday, Nov. 6, just days after making history as the first Black woman elected governor in the United States.
According to USA Today, Perry is among the high-profile names tapped to help guide the incoming administration. The transition effort, called “Georgia’s Promise,” also includes Atlanta Falcons owner and Home Depot co-founder Arthur Blank, former Walgreens Boots Alliance CEO Roz Brewer, Carter Center board chair Jason Carter and former nonprofit executive Michelle Nunn.
The appointment brings together two of Atlanta’s most recognizable figures as Bottoms prepares to take office in January.
Perry, whose sprawling film and television empire is headquartered in Atlanta, has become one of the city’s most prominent business leaders and philanthropists. His involvement adds a major entertainment industry presence to a transition team that draws from Georgia’s business, political and civic communities.
“Now the work begins,” Bottoms said during a Friday press conference at the Georgia State Capitol, according to the Georgia Recorder.
The governor-elect said her immediate focus is assembling an administration prepared to address the concerns Georgians raised throughout her campaign, including affordability, health care and public education.
“Our goal is simple: to be ready to govern on day one,” she said.
Bottoms’ election represents a political turning point for Georgia. The Democrat defeated Republican businessman Rick Jackson on Nov. 3, becoming the first member of her party to win the state’s governorship since 1998.
Her victory also marked a historic first for Black women nationwide, following years of efforts to break one of the highest barriers in American politics.
In addition to announcing her transition leadership, Bottoms confirmed that she has spoken with outgoing Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, who offered assistance to ensure a smooth transfer of power.
John King, who previously served as chief operating officer during Bottoms’ administration as Atlanta mayor, will oversee operations for the transition effort.
As Bottoms prepares to move from Atlanta City Hall to the governor’s office, Perry and the other transition co-chairs will help lay the groundwork for an administration facing significant decisions about the state’s budget, health care system and future priorities.
Additional transition appointments are expected in the coming weeks ahead of Bottoms’ January inauguration.
