Walter Walford Johnson

Walter Walford Johnson ( born April 16, 1904 in Pueblo, Colorado, † March 23, 1987 in Tempe, Arizona ) was an American politician (Democratic Party) and 1950-1951 31 Governor of the State of Colorado.

Early years and career

Johnson attended the local schools of his home. He then worked in various fields such as in construction, real estate or trade in insurance. Politically, he was a member of the Democratic Party. Since 1937 he was in his hometown school board Pueblo and from 1939 to 1943 he was its chairman. Between 1941 and 1949 he sat in the Senate from Colorado.

Governor of Colorado

In 1948, Johnson was elected vice- governor of his state. When Governor William Lee Knous on 15 April 1950 by his office resigned to accept a judgeship, Johnson had to quit as governor of the unexpired term until 9 January 1951. In his short tenure, he turned to raise taxes against proposals. He even managed to reduce the income tax. Teachers' salaries were increased and modernized the highway system. Johnson also promoted tourism. Nevertheless, he failed to be confirmed in November 1950 in his office. In the gubernatorial election he lost to Republican Dan Thornton.

Further CV

Even after the end of his governorship Johnson remained politically active. Between 1951 and 1959 he was again in the Senate of his State. After that, he was still a member of some government commissions. He died in March 1987. Together with his wife Neva M. Morrow he had two children.