Bill Walker (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bill Walker
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| 11th Governor of Alaska | |
| In office December 1, 2014 – December 3, 2018 |
|
| Lieutenant | Byron Mallott (2014–2018) Valerie Davidson (2018) |
| Preceded by | Sean Parnell |
| Succeeded by | Mike J. Dunleavy |
| Mayor of Valdez, Alaska | |
| In office 1979–1980 |
|
| Preceded by | Mac MacDonald |
| Succeeded by | Stephen McAlpine |
| Personal details | |
| Born | April 16, 1951 Fairbanks, Alaska, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican (Before 2014) Independent (2014–present) |
| Spouse | Donna Walker |
| Children | 4 |
| Alma mater | Lewis and Clark College University of Puget Sound |
William Martin "Bill" Walker (born April 16, 1951) is an American lawyer and politician. He served as the 11th Governor of Alaska from December 1, 2014, to December 3, 2018. A governor is the leader of a state government, similar to a president for a country.
Contents
Bill Walker's Journey to Leadership
Early Life and Education
Bill Walker was born in Fairbanks, Alaska, on April 16, 1951. He grew up in Alaska and later went to college at Lewis & Clark College. He also studied law at the University of Puget Sound. This education helped him become a lawyer.
First Steps in Public Service
Before becoming governor, Bill Walker served as the mayor of Valdez, Alaska, from 1979 to 1980. This was one of his first steps into public service, where he helped lead a city. He also worked as a lawyer for many years, focusing on issues important to Alaska.
Becoming Governor of Alaska
Bill Walker ran for governor of Alaska several times. In 2014, he decided to run as an Independent candidate. This means he did not belong to a major political party like the Republicans or Democrats. He teamed up with Byron Mallott, who became his Lieutenant Governor. Together, they won the election, and Bill Walker became the 11th Governor of Alaska.
Time as Governor
As governor, Bill Walker worked on many important issues for Alaska. He focused on the state's budget and energy policies. He served one term, from December 1, 2014, to December 3, 2018.
Re-election Campaign
In 2018, Bill Walker decided to run for re-election as governor. However, during the campaign, his Lieutenant Governor, Byron Mallott, resigned. A few days later, Bill Walker decided to end his campaign on October 19, 2018. He then supported another candidate, Mark Begich, in the election.
