Former Georgia Sen. Vincent Fort dies at 68

ATLANTA - Vincent Fort, the former Georgia State senator, died Sunday at the age 68, according to his family.

Fort, a Democrat who grew up in Connecticut, represented Fulton County for the 39th district from 1996 to 2017, which included parts of Atlanta, East Point, College Park, Union City and unincorporated Fulton County.

In 2001, Fort made waves in his community. Not only did he author the first hate crimes law to see harsher punishments for people who seek out their victims based on bias or prejudice, but he also authored Georgia's predatory lending law, the Georgia Fair Lending Act. It protected consumers from falling victim to abusive tactics like loan flipping, excessive fees and more. He was widely championed as a legislator for the people.

In April 2017, he was named "Legislator of the Year" by the Georgia Association of Educators for his work on Senate Bill 30. Though it did not pass, SB 30 would have required the Department of Education to provide more funding for schools.

"We have 1.3 million students enrolled in Georgia public schools whose futures depend on the functionality and success of the public schools they attend," former Sen. Fort said at the ceremony. "It is up to us as legislators and the leaders in education to ensure our schools are operating at the best they can be. The Georgia Association of Educators’ collaboration with me on my community schools efforts affirms the importance of practical solution-based approaches and the difference they can make."

Later that year, he ran for mayor against Keisha Lance Bottoms, but didn't give up on politics when she won.

In 2022, he also ran in Georgia's 13th congressional district race.

Fort was also a proud graduate of Central Connecticut State College and Atlanta University, known today as Clark Atlanta University.

"We are deeply grateful for your prayers, support, and thoughts during this incredibly difficult time," the Fort family shared Sunday evening.

Georgia leaders mourn former Sen. Vincent Fort

Atlanta City Council

"Sen. Vincent Fort was a powerful voice for economic and racial equality with a legacy of dedication to social justice, civil rights, and advocating for our marginalized communities.  As a result of the communities he impacted, many hailed him as 'The People's Champion.' His commitment to the people will always have a profound impact on our city and state. We had the privilege of honoring him and are deeply saddened by his passing. Our prayers are with his family, and all touched by his vision for a fair society. May his memory live on through the fights and causes he championed and the lives he uplifted. We will forever remember Sen. Fort's dedication to the people."

Mayor Andre Dickens

"Vincent Fort has been my friend colleague, and advisor for nearly 12 years. He will go down in Atlanta’s history as a hero for civil, housing and human rights for all. This is a loss for too many who never knew him. My prayers are with his loved ones, his co-workers and audience and the unfortunate folks who never experienced his passion and fire for justice."

Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms

"I was grateful to speak with Senator Vincent Fort nearly a week ago and tell him that I loved and appreciated him. Although we were often fiercely at odds politically, I appreciated his passion and steadfast determination to hold each of us accountable to our better selves. In his unique way, he fought valiantly on behalf of our most vulnerable communities and his legacy and love for the people of our great state will have a lasting impact. My thoughts and prayers are with his family."

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones

"I’m sad to hear that former State Senator Vincent Fort passed away. While we were in the Senate together, we didn’t always agree on politics but I considered Vincent a good friend. He was a strong champion for his constituents and his public service will leave a lasting impact on Georgia for years to come. I was lucky to serve with him and to get to know him better. Jan and I are keeping his family, friends and former colleagues in our thoughts and prayers."

Sen. Harold Jones

"My condolences to the family and friends of Senator Vincent Fort.  He was a true fighter for Justice and Equality. He was a friend and mentor. Rest well, my friend."

MARTA General Manager, CEO Collie Greenwood

"MARTA joins Atlanta in mourning the passing of former State Senator Vincent Fort, a pioneering statesman who cared passionately about the wellbeing of every Georgian. As a longtime member of MARTOC, Senator Fort played a vital role in providing oversight and support for MARTA, championing the importance of public transit and economic opportunity.

"His unwavering commitment to underserved communities and his fight for justice left a profound legacy. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who were inspired by his leadership and service."

Radio personality and former Atlanta City Council member Derrick Boazman

"Family, I'll be off the radio today but will be back tomorrow. Atlanta lost a great leader, servant, and elected official. I lost a Brother. Vincent Fort and I for over 30 years literally talked just about every day. We planned, strategized, orchestrated and lead some of the most meaningful protest in this city. He was fearless, courageous, and compassionate at the same time. I would be lying if I said this moment for me is not heavy laden. But like the soldier he was, Fort went out fighting, directing, and leading with love. I'll have much more to say later. But for now I got to go complete the assignment he gave me. Continue to lift his children, grand children, family and love ones up in prayer. May his light and life bear witness to this extraordinary man that God loaned to us for 68 years for a time.such as this!"

Georgia Legislative Black Caucus

"It is with profound sadness that the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus announces the passing of former Georgia State Senator Vincent Fort, a tireless advocate for civil rights, social justice, and equality. Senator Fort, who represented Georgia’s 39th District in the State Senate, has transitioned and been called to rest.

"During his years of dedicated service, Senator Fort championed fairness and progress, becoming a beacon of hope and a voice for the underserved in Georgia. His work as a legislator and community leader impacted countless lives, and his relentless commitment to justice earned him the respect and admiration of many.

"'Senator Vincent Fort’s unwavering dedication to civil rights and his ability to inspire meaningful change will forever be remembered," said Senator Nikki Merritt, GLBC Chair. ‘His legacy is a reminder of the power of advocacy and the importance of standing firm for what is right.’

"As we mourn the loss of a true leader, we also celebrate his life and the indelible mark he left on Georgia and beyond. The values and causes he so passionately championed serve as a call to action for all of us to continue working toward a more just and equitable society.

"Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Senator Fort’s family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work. May he rest in power."

Fort's cause of death was not disclosed.

Please note, this article may be updated as more information is released.

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