About Lanny Thomas
Background & Georgia Roots
Lanny Thomas has deep roots in Northwest Georgia. He spent his early childhood in the Rossville/Chickamauga area. Later, at the age of six, his family moved to LaFayette, where he attended and graduated from LaFayette High School in 1980.
He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Education from what was then West Georgia College. He later furthered his education by obtaining a Master’s degree and an Education Specialist degree from Jacksonville State University.
Lanny made the town of Trion, Georgia his home — where he and his family have lived for decades. He and his wife (Chrysan Thomas) have raised four sons in Trion.
Because of his upbringing, education, and life-time residence in the region, Lanny has a deep, personal understanding of life in Northwest Georgia — its values, its communities, and its people.
Career & Community Service
Lanny Thomas dedicated much of his life to public service through education. He began his career teaching at Pennville Elementary, then moved to LaFayette High School for three years. He later taught at Trion City Schools. Lanny has served in public education for 35 years.
Believing deeply in civic duty, Lanny also transitioned into local government. His first major public office was as Mayor of Trion, a role he first won in 2000. After serving a term as mayor, he left public office to be the Head Basketball Coach at Trion. He later returned to public office as a Trion city council member, then again ran successfully for mayor — showing long-term trust from his community.
As mayor and council member, Lanny has worked on municipal finances, public services, and local governance — giving him a strong record of small-town leadership and experience navigating local issues.
Lanny also serves as a Deacon in his Church. He is currently serving as president of Lookout Mountain CASA. He is the past president of the Summerville/Trion Optimist Club. He is also the President of Georgia Municipal Association District One.
Why He’s Running for Senate (District 53)
In November 2025, Lanny Thomas publicly announced his bid for Georgia State Senate 53rd District. In his announcement, Lanny said his time as mayor is drawing to a close, and he believes the coming moment is right to serve a broader community across Northwest Georgia.
He frames his candidacy as a natural evolution from decades of improving his local community as an educator and municipal leader — carrying the values of service, accountability, and conservative stewardship to the state level.
Lanny says his goal is to be a reliable conduit between the people of District 53 and the capitol: to carry their voice, fight for their needs, and ensure their issues are heard in Atlanta.
With his background in education — and firsthand experience in small-town governance — he plans to advance policies that support rural education, government fiscal responsibility, and community-driven growth.
Family & Community Values
Lanny and his wife Chrysan have called Trion home for over 35 years. Together they raised four sons, all of whom graduated from the local schools. He has seven grandchildren and is expecting a granddaugter in March. Even after his long teaching career, Lanny has remained deeply rooted in the community — involved, accessible, and responsive to neighbors.
He often speaks about traditional values, family, and the tight-knit bonds that characterize small towns like Trion. He believes government should reflect those values: accountability, service, honesty, and respect for community.
What Lanny Brings to District 53
Deep local roots. Born and raised in Northwest Georgia; long-term resident of Trion.
Educational background. Over two decades teaching — understands our schools, children, and families.
Municipal leadership experience. Multiple terms as mayor and councilman with real results on governance and budgeting.
Proven commitment. Lifelong service to the region; grounded in conservative, community-centered values.
A voice for small towns. Ready to take concerns of rural and small-town Georgia to the state capitol.