Tim Walberg is a Republican member of the United States House of Representatives, representing Michigan's 5th congressional district since January 3, 2011. Born on April 12, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, Walberg graduated from Thornton Fractional Township North High School in 1969 and subsequently attended several institutions, including Western Illinois University and Moody Bible College. He earned his Bachelor of Science from Fort Wayne Bible College in 1975 and a Master's degree from Wheaton College in 1978. Before his congressional career, Walberg served in the Michigan State House of Representatives from 1983 to 1998 and was elected to Congress in 2006, serving until 2009 before returning to Congress in 2011.
In the current session, Walberg serves as the chair of the Committee on Education and Workforce. His legislative focus includes education, energy, and health care, as well as broader issues like government oversight and environmental policy.
Walberg has sponsored and co-sponsored several bills reflecting his policy priorities:
Social Security and Medicare Lock-Box Act (HR 1221): This bill aims to establish dedicated surplus protection accounts within the Social Security and Medicare programs to secure any surplus generated from revenues and prevent mismanagement of these funds. By establishing these accounts, the legislation intends to safeguard the financial integrity of these programs during fiscal pressures and seeks advice on alternative investment strategies.
Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act (HR 2165): Aimed at amending the Clean Air Act, this bill proposes ensuring that new tailpipe regulations do not limit the availability of new motor vehicles. Fundamental to this legislation is a belief in maintaining consumer choice and preventing excessive regulations that may hinder industry growth.
Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act (HB 1917): This program emphasizes the need for environmental stewardship of the Great Lakes, promoting sustainable practices to protect these vital resources. Walberg's engagement in environmental issues showcases his recognition of regional ecological concerns.
Protecting America's Strategic Petroleum Reserve from China Act (HB 22): This bill prohibits the sale of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to any entity connecting to the Chinese Communist Party. This initiative reflects a strong stance on national security and energy independence.
Defending Education Transparency and Ending Rogue Regimes Engaging in Nefarious Transactions Act (HB 1048): This bill aims to enhance transparency requirements for foreign donations to institutions of higher education, aiming to limit influence from potentially hostile entities. By ensuring these organizations disclose substantial foreign gifts, the legislation seeks to maintain integrity in U.S. higher education.
Tim Walberg's legislative record indicates a conservatively aligned policymaking approach, particularly favoring tax reforms, decreased regulatory barriers, and enhanced security measures regarding national resources and education. His support of the Social Security and Medicare Lock-Box Act indicates a proactive stance towards the management of social programs while balancing fiscal responsibility. Concurrently, his advocacy for automotive and energy-related legislation underscores a pro-business attitude, aiming to foster economic growth without excessive governmental intervention.
His legislative proximity to education policies, coupled with his role as chair of the Education and Workforce Committee, positions him as an influential voice in shaping educational funding and reform initiatives, emphasizing parental rights and options in education.
While Walberg's legislative initiatives resonate with Republican principles of limited government and economic freedom, they also reflect contemporary GOP priorities concerning environmental regulation and national security. His actions signal an alignment with broader Republican strategies focused on enhancing individual and institutional autonomy while remaining cognizant of national interests in education, energy, and environmental stewardship.
Outside of his political career, Walberg has deep roots in public service and ministry, having served as a minister prior to his legislative career. He resides in Michigan, where he remains active in local community issues. His experience in both education and faith-based initiatives informs his positions on multiple family and social issues, adding a personal dimension to his professional commitments.
In summary, Tim Walberg is a notable figure within the U.S. Congress, characterized by his commitment to conservative principles, educational reform, and a proactive approach to energy and environmental policies, shaping his district and engaging with national issues affecting the broader American populace.