Harold Velde completed his undergraduate studies at Bradley University and Northwestern University. He earned his law degree from the University of Illinois Law School. Velde's professional career includes serving in the United States Army Signal Corps and as a special agent for the FBI's sabotage and counterespionage division. He then transitioned to the judiciary, serving as a judge for Tazewell County, Illinois, before being elected to the United States House of Representatives, where he chaired the House Un-American Activities Committee. After his congressional service, Velde practiced law and held a regional counsel position with the General Services Administration.

Harold Velde's career reveals a unique blend of law enforcement and legislative experience, particularly in counterespionage and anti-subversive activities. His tenure as Chairman of the House Un-American Activities Committee highlights a strong focus on national security and ideological purity. Despite lacking detailed economic policy positions, Velde's background suggests a calculated approach to protecting regional interests, raising questions about how he balances local and national concerns.