Meet Bárbara

My grandparents came to this country from Cuba in 1962 seeking one thing: Freedom. I’m a first-generation American, born in Puerto Rico and raised to believe deeply in personal responsibility and the promise of opportunity. Today, I have the honor of serving as Georgia’s first Latina constitutional officer — something my grandparents could never have imagined, and a responsibility I carry with me every day.

In March 2025, Gov. Brian Kemp appointed me as Georgia’s 11th Labor Commissioner. I was sworn in on April 4, 2025, and I embrace this role with unwavering dedication to the hardworking men and women of Georgia.

Since taking office, I haven’t spent my time behind a desk. I hit the road, traveling across Georgia to listen. I’ve sat with parents waiting weeks for unemployment checks. I’ve heard from small business owners struggling to find skilled workers. I’ve talked with community leaders who see untapped potential in their neighbors — potential that outdated systems are failing to unlock. Those conversations shape every decision I’ve made as Commissioner. And they led to action.

My roots run deep in Georgia, and my commitment to its people is unshakable. For years, I’ve been on the front lines of economic development — facilitating job creation, attracting investment, and advancing economic mobility for communities across our state.

As Commissioner, I am leading the Georgia Department of Labor into a transformative era — one that builds trust, fosters collaboration, delivers better service, and unlocks prosperity for all. Through innovation, partnership, and relentless hard work, we are delivering real results:

  • Modernizing decades-old legacy systems to speed up unemployment claims and eliminate bureaucratic red tape.

  • Expanding dynamic workforce training partnerships to equip a strong workforce for the modern economy.

  • Connecting Georgians with higher-wage, mortgage-paying jobs that support families and strengthen communities.

I want you to know this:

I will never stop fighting for you.

We are paving the way for a stronger, more prosperous Georgia — one that future generations will be proud to call home.

Let’s keep going, Georgia!

Barbara lives in Albany, Georgia, with her husband, David, and their daughter, Alejandra. Their home is also happily shared with their beloved dogs, Pearl and Suede; their cat, Rosie; and a flock of happy, leisurely, backyard chickens popularly known as the Holmestead Hens, all of whom keep the family entertained and on its toes.