Avoid Tim Walz on the national stage at all costs

Having lived in Minnesota for 50 years, I have closely followed the career of vice presidential nominee Tim Walz.

Here are some important facts Americans should be aware of:

Initially, Minnesota thrived under Walz’s leadership. Historically, our state had a per-capita gross domestic product above the national average. However, in 2023, we fell below the national average for the first time ever. This decline can be attributed to the high taxes, excessive spending, strict regulations, and anti-growth policies of the Walz administration.

Minnesota was traditionally known as a low-crime state. Yet, under Gov. Walz’s leadership, his anti-law enforcement stance and delayed response to the George Floyd riots led to a surge in crime that continues today. Minnesota is now classified as a high-crime state for the first time in history.

Additionally, while education in Minnesota was once a point of pride, student achievement has declined significantly during Walz’s tenure. Despite increased spending, more than half of K-12 students in public schools struggle with reading and math skills. Moreover, the emphasis on political indoctrination over academic achievement has contributed to this decline.

Furthermore, due to poor government policies, Minnesota is experiencing an exodus of residents to lower-tax, less liberal states like California, New York, and Illinois.

Despite Walz’s declining popularity and questionable record, Democrats selected him as their vice presidential candidate. It is clear that his presence on the ticket is not needed to secure Minnesota for the party.

In rural Minnesota, Walz is widely disliked for his derogatory remarks about rural residents. His military service, once a point of pride, has become a source of controversy following his decision to resign from the National Guard before a deployment to Iraq.

Overall, many Minnesotans are dismayed at the prospect of Walz wielding power in Washington, given his track record in the state.

Tim Walz should not be allowed to replicate in America what he has done in Minnesota.

John Hinderaker is president of the Center of the American Experiment.