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A leader who was characterized by friendship, integrity and helpfulness
Massachusetts

A leader who was characterized by friendship, integrity and helpfulness


3 minutes reading time

Living with someone as a roommate reveals a lot about their character. You see them at their best and their worst, their moments of triumph and their moments of frustration, and you understand what really drives them. That’s why I can safely say that Tim Walz is not just a dedicated public servant; he is a man of unwavering character, deep integrity, and selfless leadership.

In 2007, Tim Walz was a freshman in Congress and new to the centers of power in Washington, DC. Despite the hustle and bustle of a new political life, Tim and I quickly became close friends. We had both served in the military, believed in the power of public service, and wanted to make a difference in the lives of those we were called to serve. Since we were both raising young children, we decided to share a modest apartment in Washington, DC when we were in town for work.

Tim’s approach to life and service was immediately clear – he believes in putting others before himself. Whether he was working on legislation or helping out in our tiny apartment, Tim’s focus was always on how he could best serve his constituents, his country and the people around him. This selflessness is the foundation of his character and the guiding principle of his leadership.

Tim’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life is one of his most distinctive qualities. Even as a freshman congressman, he managed to make everyone feel heard and valued, whether they were colleagues, constituents, or staff. His talent for listening carefully and finding common ground despite differences wasn’t just a skill – it was a reflection of his genuine care for others and his unwavering integrity. These qualities have made him a successful leader who understands that empathy and understanding are critical to building strong, resilient communities.

As a friend, Tim was always faithful and loyal. He is the type of person who will always be there when it matters most, offering support without being asked. I remember times when I faced challenges and Tim was always there, ready to listen and offer advice. His friendship is a testament to his deep sense of responsibility to those he cares about – a quality that has shaped his career in public service.

When Tim decided to run for public office, it was clear that he was driven by a desire to serve, not personal ambition. He saw public service as a calling, a way to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Even as his responsibilities increased, he never lost sight of the personal relationships that mattered most to him. Despite the demands of his role, Tim always made time for the people in his life, whether it was checking in on an old friend or making sure his constituents felt valued and heard.

Because he listened and truly wanted to make a positive difference, he didn’t listen to the naysayers and had the moral courage to lead the fight to create the Post-9/11 GI Bill and repeal the military ban on gay soldiers, known as “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.” Both pieces of legislation have made game-changing changes for our military veterans and their families. More than 800,000 Americans are currently getting an education and improving their lives with the help of the Post-9/11 GI Bill. LGBTQ soldiers no longer have to fear serving in disgrace because of their sexual orientation. His moral courage and leadership won Tim Walz a congressional district that Democrats could not win before or after his service. As governor, he helped make Minnesota the fifth-best state for job creation and the state with the lowest unemployment rate in the country.

Tim’s leadership style is rooted in the belief that public service is about making a difference, not about being in the spotlight. He sees his role as governor as an opportunity to build a better future, not a platform for personal gain. This attitude has carried him through every challenge he has faced, from managing crises to making difficult decisions for the greater good. Tim’s humility, dedication and integrity make him a truly remarkable leader – focused on results that benefit everyone, especially working Americans.

As a second-term governor and former high school teacher, Tim is known for his deep belief in the power of education. He understands that education is the key to unlocking opportunity and building a better future for all. One of his key proposals is to make college more affordable, recognizing that the burden of student debt is a significant hurdle for many young people. Tim is a strong advocate for lowering tuition costs and increasing access to higher education to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their financial situation.

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I’ve seen Tim tackle some of the most pressing issues of our time with the same determination and compassion he brought to Congress. Whether supporting veterans, advocating for education, or expanding access to healthcare, Tim approaches every issue with a focus on what’s best for the people he serves. He’s not interested in partisan politics or personal glory—he’s dedicated to building a stronger, more just society.

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are committed to improving the lives of working Americans. As leaders, they understand the importance of expanding access to education, healthcare, and opportunity for all. Tim, a second-term governor and former high school teacher, is a strong advocate for making college more affordable, recognizing that education is a key to achieving the American dream. Their commitment to public service, rooted in integrity and a deep belief in the power of community, reflects the kind of leadership our nation needs in these difficult times.

Together they embody the values ​​that strengthen our democracy and inspire confidence in a better future for all.

Patrick Murphy is a retired Army captain and Iraq War veteran who served in the U.S. House of Representatives as a Democrat from Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

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