New Leadership at Georgia’s Department of Revenue
In a significant leadership change, Governor Brian Kemp has named David Burge as the upcoming Commissioner for Georgia’s Department of Revenue (DOR). This announcement arrives as current Commissioner Frank O’Connell transitions to his new role as the state’s inaugural Tax Court Chief Judge.
Burge, who is currently a partner at the Atlanta-based law firm Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP, is set to assume his new responsibilities on February 16, 2026. His background includes a noteworthy appointment to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs board in 2020, where he oversaw the management of over $300 million in state and federal funding each year.
In addition to his legal career, Burge has been actively involved in various community and state-level committees and civic organizations. His contributions include roles with the Georgia Real Estate Commission and the State Bar of Georgia.
Commissioner O’Connell will officially begin his tenure as Chief Judge on April 1, 2026. The transition marks a new chapter for both the Department of Revenue and the state’s judicial system.
