Tim Walz Crumbles When Asked About His ‘Numerous Misstatements’
Democratic vice-presidential candidate Tim Walz acknowledged he would choose his words “more carefully” after Vice President Kamala Harris advised him to be more “thoughtful” in his language.
“I even caught myself recently, speaking passionately on gun violence and meeting with survivors,” Walz said. “I’ve sat down with those affected by Sandy Hook. I’m friends with David Hogg, an activist on this issue.”
Walz’s commitment to think before he speaks comes after a rocky debate performance against Republican vice-presidential candidate Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH). During the debate, over 40 million viewers were surprised by his claim of being “friends with school shooters.”
“It’s very clear that I wear my emotions on my sleeve,” Walz admitted. “In roles like governor or vice president, you need to stay composed, careful, and a bit more thoughtful.”
He attributes his outspoken style to his background as both a teacher and a football coach.
“I speak with passion, combining it with what I know, and I believe that’s what [Harris] is referring to,” he said.
Appearing on ABC’s “The View” on Monday, Walz quickly made headlines.
When he attempted to blame former President Donald Trump for the struggling economy, he remarked, “It’s clear that Trump is spiraling, unhinged. What concerns me are his dangerous comments about an ‘enemy from within’ and other remarks.”
“But the positive side of this is the emergence of an opportunity economy,” Walz added.
He struggled to respond when asked about numerous “misstatements” he’s made over the years, including those on the campaign trail.
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Democratic vice-presidential nominee and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has, at times, been criticized for misrepresenting personal stories, a habit that appears not to sit well with Vice President Harris.
In an interview with Good Morning America host and NFL Hall of Famer Michael Strahan, Walz was pressed on his previous statements and how Harris responded.
“You’ve called yourself a knucklehead for statements that don’t align with reality, such as saying you carried ‘weapons of war’ during your service, which you didn’t, or claiming to be in Hong Kong during the Tiananmen Square massacre, when you weren’t. Opponents say you lied to enhance your image. Do they have a point?” Strahan asked.
“Well, 35 years ago, I had the chance to be in Hong Kong and China, and I learned a lot. I served 24 years in the National Guard,” Walz replied, appearing to stumble. “I’m proud of my service, proud of my teaching career, and I’ve been transparent over the years.”
He continued by listing his achievements, saying, “We see results here—Minnesota is a top-five state for business, among the best for raising children, and we have excellent healthcare. My record on policies, including standing against dictators, is strong. Kamala Harris and I won’t be putting dictators on speed dial or praising Xi Jinping’s handling of Covid, as Trump did.”
When asked about Harris’s guidance, Walz confirmed, “Yes, Vice President Harris told me to be a little more careful with how I say things.”