Tim Walz: From Social Studies Teacher to Minnesota's 41st Governor

Early Life and Education

Timothy James Walz was born on April 6, 1964, in Red Wing, Minnesota.

Walz earned a Bachelor of Arts in social studies education from Bemidji State University in 1989.

He then went on to earn a Master of Arts in educational leadership from the University of St. Thomas in 1994.

Military Service

Walz served in the United States Army for 24 years, retiring as a command sergeant major in 2005.

He was deployed to Iraq in 2003 and 2005.

Walz was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Iraq.

Political Career

Walz was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2006.

He served as the ranking member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee from 2017 to 2019.

Walz was elected Governor of Minnesota in 2018 and won re-election in 2022.

Policy Positions

• Walz is a strong supporter of public education.
• He has also been a vocal advocate for veterans and their families.
• Walz is a proponent of gun control and has called for universal background checks.
• He is also a supporter of abortion rights and has signed legislation codifying Roe v. Wade into Minnesota law.

Personal Life

Walz is married to Gwen Walz and they have three children.

He is a member of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party.

Walz is a Roman Catholic and attends Mass regularly.

Awards and Honors

• Walz has been awarded the Distinguished Service Medal by the Minnesota National Guard.
• He has also been recognized by the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.
• In 2019, Walz was named one of Time magazine's "100 Most Influential People."