Tom Murphy grew up in a large family on a dairy farm in Scott County, Minnesota, and holds a bachelor's degree in marketing from St. Cloud State University. He began his career as a sales representative for an agriculture products company before establishing his own dairy supply sales business in Otter Tail County. After selling that business, he founded MinStart Ag Products, where he currently focuses on new technologies and products for local retailers and growers. Murphy has also served as a township supervisor and board member for Park Region Telephone Company, showcasing his leadership capabilities.

Tom Murphy's political identity is shaped by a blend of deeply rooted conservative values and an unexpected focus on modernizing agricultural practices. His legislative record reveals an intriguing alignment with progressive environmental groups on certain sustainability measures, suggesting a strategic approach to balancing traditional beliefs with forward-thinking policies. Murphy’s rhetoric often emphasizes community and faith, yet his support for certain medical freedom initiatives presents a conceptual tension with his pro-life stance. This juxtaposition invites further inquiry into how he reconciles these seemingly disparate policy areas.