Walter Tucker graduated as the valedictorian of Compton High School and holds a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Southern California, followed by a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center. He was admitted to the California State Bar and served as Mayor of Compton before being convicted on multiple counts of extortion and tax evasion in 1995. After serving time in federal prison, Tucker transitioned to ministry work, holding various pastoral and ministry leadership roles in California and Illinois. Currently, he serves as the pastor of Truth and Love Christian Church in Carson, California.

Walter Tucker's political identity is shaped by a complex interplay of personal redemption and ideological resilience. Despite a history marred by legal troubles, Tucker has leveraged his experiences into a powerful narrative of faith-based reform and community revitalization. His rhetorical style often blends personal testimony with broader social critiques, creating an intriguing tension between his past and present public personas.