Tim Walz: From Schoolteacher to Potential Vice President

Who is Tim Walz?

Timothy James Walz (born April 6, 1964) is an American politician, former schoolteacher, and retired U.S. Army National Guard officer serving as the 38th Governor of Minnesota since 2019.

Before entering politics, Walz worked as a high school social studies teacher and coach in Mankato, Minnesota. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006, representing Minnesota's 1st congressional district.

Political Career

Walz was elected Governor of Minnesota in 2018, defeating incumbent Republican governor Jeff Johnson. He is a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL), the Minnesota affiliate of the Democratic Party.

Walz is considered a moderate Democrat. He has been a vocal supporter of gun control measures and has worked to expand access to affordable healthcare in Minnesota.

Vice Presidential Speculation

In recent years, Walz has been mentioned as a potential running mate for Democratic presidential candidates. In 2020, he was considered a contender to be Joe Biden's running mate. Ultimately, Biden chose California Senator Kamala Harris as his running mate.

However, Walz remains a popular figure among Democrats and is considered a potential vice presidential candidate in future elections.

Personal Life

Walz is married to Gwen Walz, a former teacher. They have two children.

Key Facts

• Born in Redwood Falls, Minnesota
• Served in the U.S. Army National Guard for 24 years
• Taught high school social studies for 12 years
• Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006
• Elected Governor of Minnesota in 2018
• Considered a moderate Democrat
• Potential vice presidential candidate in future elections

Sources

1. https://www.governor.state.mn.us/about-the-governor
2. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/27/us/politics/tim-walz-biden-vice-president.html
3. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2020/07/27/tim-walz-minnesota-governor-bidens-vice-president-list/