Bart Ladd: A Career in Aviation and Georgia Politics
Charles Barton Ladd, known as Bart Ladd, is an American former politician and experienced aviator whose professional life has spanned military service, state governance in Georgia, and commercial aviation. With a background in mechanical engineering and a commitment to public service, Ladd's career reflects a transition from the cockpit to the legislative halls and back again.
Early Life and Education
Born on July 18, 1957, in Boston, Massachusetts, Bart Ladd pursued a technical education at Purdue University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in mechanical engineering. This academic foundation paved the way for his entry into high-level aviation.
Military and Aviation Career
Before entering politics, Ladd dedicated eight years of service as a C-130 aircraft commander, a role involving the operation of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, a four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft. Following his political tenure, he transitioned into the commercial sector, where he serves as a pilot for Delta Air Lines.
Political Career in Georgia
Bart Ladd's political trajectory began in the Georgia House of Representatives, where he served two different districts over nearly a decade.
Georgia House of Representatives
Ladd first entered the House representing the 44th district from January 14, 1991, to January 11, 1993, succeeding John Linder. He subsequently represented the 59th district from January 11, 1993, to January 11, 1999, taking over from Mike Barnett.
Georgia State Senate
In 1999, Ladd moved to the upper chamber of the state legislature. He served as a member of the Georgia State Senate for the 41st district from January 11, 1999, to January 13, 2003. He succeeded Jim Tysinger in this role. After losing his reelection bid in 2002, Ladd attempted a return to the Senate in 2004 but was unsuccessful in the Republican primary.
Later Years and Maine Residency
In 2011, Ladd and his wife, Christina, and their two daughters relocated to Maine. While residing there, he sought to return to public office in 2016 by running for the Maine Senate. He challenged the incumbent Senator Cathy Breen but was not successful in the general election.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Charles Barton Ladd
- Education: BS in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University
- Military Experience: 8 years as a C-130 aircraft commander
- Georgia House Tenure: 1991–1999 (44th and 59th districts)
- Georgia Senate Tenure: 1999–2003 (41st district)
- Current Profession: Pilot for Delta Air Lines
| Body | District | Term Start | Term End | Preceded By | Succeeded By |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GA House | 44th | Jan 14, 1991 | Jan 11, 1993 | John Linder | Sharon R. Trense |
| GA House | 59th | Jan 11, 1993 | Jan 11, 1999 | Mike Barnett | Fran Millar |
| GA Senate | 41st | Jan 11, 1999 | Jan 13, 2003 | Jim Tysinger | Steve Henson |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bart Ladd's educational background?
Bart Ladd graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering.
Which districts did Bart Ladd represent in the Georgia House?
He represented the 44th district from 1991 to 1993 and the 59th district from 1993 to 1999.
How long did Bart Ladd serve in the Georgia State Senate?
He served in the Georgia State Senate for the 41st district from January 11, 1999, until January 13, 2003.
What is Bart Ladd's professional experience in aviation?
Ladd served eight years as a C-130 aircraft commander and is currently a pilot for Delta Air Lines.
Did Bart Ladd run for office in any state other than Georgia?
Yes, after moving to Maine in 2011, he ran for the Maine Senate in 2016 against incumbent Senator Cathy Breen, though he did not win the general election.