Tim Walz to head House National Guard and Reserve Components Caucus

Rep. Tim Walz will be the new co-chair of the National Guard and Reserve Components Caucus at the start of the new Congress in January. Walz, the highest ranking enlisted soldier to ever serve in the House, will share the post with Republican Rep. Duncan Hunter of California. Walz will join several other members of Minnesota’s congressional delegation who also serve as chairs of caucuses in the House.

In a press release announcing Walz’ new post, Hunter said, “I am honored to serve as co-chair of the Guard and Reserve Caucus alongside Tim, who served our country in the National Guard and is also one of the strongest advocates in Congress for our servicemen and women. Tim’s insight and experience make him a perfect fit to help lead the caucus and I look forward to working with him on the issues that matter most to the Guard and Reserve, and its families.”

Walz has the backing of an array of groups in his new post including the National Guard Association of the United States, the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States, the Marine Corps Reserve Association, the Association of the US Navy, the Retired Enlisted Association, the Reserve Officers Association and the Reserve Enlisted Association.

Walz isn’t alone among state delegates for serving as chair of a caucus. Rep. Michele Bachmann founded and chairs the House Tea Party Caucus; Rep Erik Paulsen chairs the Med Tech Caucus; and Rep. Keith Ellison is the new co-chair of the House Progressive Caucus.