Biography

Rep. Chip Cravaack is a 24 year Navy veteran, and he is the third generation of his family to serve in the United States military.  His experience as a Navy helicopter pilot and Northwest Airlines pilot gave him the opportunity to experience and live in multiple areas of the United States, as well as travel to many foreign countries. Chip decided, however, to make Northeast Minnesota his permanent home.  He was immediately drawn to the beauty of the 32nd state and the excellent communities found in the 8th District.

Chip’s love of country and work ethic can be traced directly to his grandparents, who came to this country in search of a better life. He has never lost sight of their vision, and is now focused on ensuring the blessings and opportunities he has experienced will be available to his children and all future generations of Americans.

“The story of America is unique in world history. Before our founding, no country had ever been created with the goal of establishing a free population and citizen governance, instead of rule by a decree from unaccountable monarchs and dictators. As someone who has never before run for public office, I believe I’m living proof the ideal of citizen legislators is still alive. I’ve come to Congress to preserve the founding principles of a free people, free enterprise and limited government that have made our country great. I want all future generations of Americans to have the chance to experience the ‘American Dream’ I’ve been fortunate enough to live.”

During his Navy career, then Captain Cravaack was honored with several awards and citations, including a Joint Service Commendation Medal, two Navy Commendation Medals, two Navy Achievement Medals, and a Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation. Captain Cravaack proudly wears Naval Aviator Wings, Navy/Marine Corps Parachutist Wings, and Air Assault Badge as well as being a designated Navy Master Training Specialist.

Chip was born in Charleston, West Virginia and grew up outside Cincinnati, Ohio.  He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Naval Academy and a Masters Degree in Education from University of West Florida. Chip has also attended courses at the Naval War College and the National Defense University.

Chip’s wife, Traci, is a graduate of The Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota. They have two sons.