The Hill: Congressman Mark Walker Says He’s Been Contacted About Liberty University Vacancy

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, rumors emerged that Rep. Mark Walker (R-NC), who’s not running for reelection, was being considered for the position of president of Liberty University, to fill the new vacancy.

Well, it is now confirmed that Walker has been talking with board members, at least, of the nation’s largest Christian university, even though he demurs on the question of accepting . From The Hill:

“Rep. Mark Walker (R-N.C.) says he has been contacted by a Liberty University board member and others about the leadership vacancy at the evangelical Lynchburg, Va., which accepted longtime President Jerry Falwell Jr.’s resignation on Tuesday.

Walker, a minister with ties to the university, told Politico Wednesday that “it’s not something I have considered,” but that “Liberty University is too important to go without strong leadership.”

“I have talked with a board member but my focus is for the Liberty University family to find healing while continuing its mission of developing Christ-centered men and women with the values, knowledge, and skills essential to impact the world,” he said. […]”

Walker called out former university president Jerry Falwell Jr for behavior that can best be described as tacky and unbecoming of his position. That was before the scandal erupted concerning his wife, a pool boy, and some alleged voyeurism.

If he is considering the position, he’s likely weighing it against future political prospects as well. Walker was essentially drawn out of congress during the redistricting saga, flipping his district from 60/40 Republican to 60/40 Democrat. However, he’s reportedly eyeing the 2022 race for Senate being that Senator Richard Burr is retiring. Walker might have to contend with other familiar names, like former governor Pat McCrory, if he chose to jump into that race.