Johnson received a master's degree in radio and television arts from Michigan State University in 1970.

In 1996, Johnson was elected to represent Wisconsin's 8th congressional district in the 105th United States Congress after 18-year incumbent Toby Roth chose not to run for a 10th term.

In August 1999, Johnson was nominated by President Bill Clinton to become Director of the United States Mint.

He was confirmed by the United States Senate in May 2000 and served until his successor was appointed by President George W. Bush in August 2001.

[5] On October 17, 2009, Johnson died at his home in Bristow, Virginia, of an apparent heart attack.