Tobias grew up in Topeka where he attended public schools and graduated from Topeka West High School. He went on to attend Washburn University and later graduate from the University of Kansas.

Since 2005, he has served as the Senior Pastor of the First Congregational Church in Topeka. As the lead chaplain of the Topeka Police Department, he understands the unique challenges Topeka faces. In 2011, when Sam Brownback attempted to shut down the Kansas Neurological Institute, he led the charge to defend critical services to Kansans with disabilities.

Tobias has been politically active for many years, serving as the Treasurer for the Kansas Democratic Party and also as a candidate for Congress and the Kansas Senate. Other roles within the community include Past President and current member of the Brewster Place Board of Directors, Past President of the Topeka Center for Peace and Justice, and past member of the Central Topeka Grocery Oasis.

Tobias has lived in the 55th House District for over 40 years and is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.