Rep. Mike Thompson, U.S. Congressman representing California’s 4th district, posted a series of messages on his official Twitter account from May 3 to May 4, 2026, addressing community efforts in environmental conservation, teacher appreciation, and the legacy of student protest.
On May 3, Thompson expressed gratitude to local volunteers: “Thank you to the volunteers who came out to plant more trees in our community redwood forest.”
The following day, during Teachers Appreciation Week, he acknowledged educators’ contributions: “This Teachers Appreciation Week, we honor the dedicated educators who shape our next generation. Teachers are the backbone of our communities, and I’ll keep working in Congress to ensure they have the resources, respect, and support they deserve.” This message aligns with ongoing national recognition of teachers each spring.
Later that day on May 4, Thompson referenced a historical event: “56 years ago, four college students were killed and nine more were injured at Kent State University while peacefully protesting the Vietnam war. Our country was founded on the right to protest, and we must fight to protect that right for future generations.” The Kent State shootings occurred on May 4, 1970—a pivotal moment in U.S. history highlighting tensions over free speech and protest rights.
Thompson has represented California’s 4th district since succeeding Frank Riggs in 1999. He was born in St Helena in 1951 and currently resides there at age 72. Thompson is an alumnus of California State University, Chico (BA ’82).
