Walter Blackman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Walt Blackman
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Member of the Arizona House of Representatives from the 7th district |
|
| Assumed office January 13, 2025 Serving with David Marshall
|
|
| Preceded by | David Cook |
| Member of the Arizona House of Representatives from the 6th district |
|
| In office January 14, 2019 – January 9, 2023 Serving with Brenda Barton
|
|
| Preceded by | Brenda Barton |
| Succeeded by | Myron Tsosie |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1965/1966 (age 58–59) Portugal |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Kristi Blackman |
| Children | 5 |
| Education | Grand Canyon University |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service |  United States Army |
| Awards | Bronze Star Meritorious Service Medal |
Walter Blackman (born 1965/1966) is an American politician. He serves in the Arizona House of Representatives. This is a group of people who make laws for the state of Arizona. He represents the 7th district.
Before this, he served in the legislature from 2019 to 2023. He was the first black Republican to be elected to the Arizona State Legislature. Blackman also served for 21 years in the United States Army. He earned a special award called a Bronze Star for his brave actions as a tank commander in Iraq.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Walt Blackman was born in Portugal. His father was an officer in the United States Air Force Security Forces. This means his dad worked in the Air Force. Walt grew up in Wiesbaden, Germany.
Military and Business Career
Blackman had a long and successful career in the United States Army. He served for 21 years. During his time in the Army, he was a tank commander. He received a Bronze Star for his brave actions in Iraq. He also earned a Meritorious Service Medal.
After his military service, Blackman started his own business. From 2016 to 2018, he was the founder and CEO of WB Inclusion and Diversity Consulting Firm, LLC. This company was located in Snowflake, Arizona.
Political Career in Arizona
In 2018, Walt Blackman was elected to the Arizona House of Representatives. He is a member of the Republican party. He represented district 6. He was the first black Republican ever elected to the Arizona Legislature.
Working for Justice Reform
Blackman supports making changes to the justice system. This is called criminal justice reform. He believes in giving people a second chance. He leads a special committee that looks at ways prisoners can earn time off their sentences. This can happen if they work or take classes in prison.
In 2020, the Arizona House approved a bill he suggested. A bill is a proposed law. This bill would allow non-violent prisoners to reduce their sentences. They could do this by working or taking classes like drug treatment or self-improvement courses.
Running for Congress
In March 2021, Blackman announced he would run for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. This is a national position. He ran for Arizona's 2nd congressional district in the 2022 elections. He finished second in the Republican primary race.
Returning to the State House
In January 2023, Blackman announced he would run for the State House again. This would be his third time serving. His new district is the 7th legislative district. It includes more of Pinal County.
Personal Life
Walt Blackman is married to Kristi Blackman. They have five children together. His wife works at the Northern Arizona Council of Government.
See also
