Thomas Dawes (August 5, 1731 – January 2, 1809) is a Patriot who served as a Massachusetts militia colonel during the American Revolution and afterward assumed prominent positions in Massachusetts's government.

His positions include membership and chairmanship of the Massachusetts Governor's Council and representative in both the House and Senate.

As chairman of the Governor's Council, Dawes serves briefly as the de jure presiding officer of the executive branch of Massachusetts' state government for ten days – May 20, 1800 to May 30, 1800 – following the death of first Governor Increase Sumner and then Lieutenant Governor Moses Gill.