Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota recently made critical comments about former President Donald Trump and his vice-presidential pick, Senator JD Vance of Ohio. Speaking at a rally organized by the Harris campaign in St. Cloud, Minn., Gov. Walz referred to the Republican duo as “weird people” and a dangerous combination.
During the event, Gov. Walz expressed his concerns about the potential threat posed by what he called “fascists” and emphasized that Minnesotans are not afraid of such individuals, despite finding them a bit unsettling. He also poked fun at Mr. Trump’s choice of Mr. Vance as his running mate, suggesting that the selection was made based on superficial reasons such as Mr. Vance being a TV personality and author of “Hillbilly Elegy.”
The rally, attended by approximately 200 people, featured other prominent Democratic figures such as Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representative Betty McCollum. Gov. Walz’s remarks came just hours before Mr. Trump and Mr. Vance were set to hold their own campaign event in the same city.
In light of recent polling data showing Vice President Kamala Harris leading Mr. Trump in the state, Gov. Walz sought to dispel any hope among Republican organizers that Minnesota could be a competitive state in the upcoming election. He emphasized that Minnesotans view Mr. Trump and Mr. Vance as “weird” individuals and expressed confidence in the state’s continued support for Democratic candidates.
When asked about reports suggesting that he was being considered as a potential running mate for Vice President Harris, Gov. Walz expressed his gratitude for being included in the conversation. He praised Vice President Harris’s judgment and the positive energy she was bringing to the Democratic Party through the selection process.
Overall, Gov. Walz’s comments at the rally reflected a combination of criticism towards the Republican ticket and a sense of optimism about the Democratic Party’s prospects in Minnesota. By highlighting the contrast between the two parties and emphasizing the state’s historical support for Democratic candidates, Gov. Walz aimed to rally support for the upcoming election and reinforce his commitment to progressive values.
