From Moderate Congressman to 'Radical' Governor
Once considered a moderate Democratic congressman, Tim Walz’s reputation has dramatically changed in recent years. Attendees at the rally reflected on his earlier political career, pointing out his cooperation with Republicans like South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem.
Source: Stephen Maturen/Getty Images
However, they now believe Walz has embraced far-left policies as the governor of Minnesota, alienating many of his former supporters.
Attendees Speak Out
Zach Halkias, the 22-year-old vice president of the local Slatington Borough Council, shared his strong opposition to Walz.
Source: Office of Governor Tim Walz & Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan/Wikimedia Commons
“I’ll make my message to Tim Walz loud and clear: Pennsylvanians will not give him the chance to do to our PA cities what he allowed to occur in 2020 in Minneapolis,” Halkias said, referencing the protests that followed George Floyd’s death under Walz’s watch as governor.
A Tale of Two Visits
Walz’s visit to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, took place just hours before Trump’s Harrisburg town hall, but it hardly made a splash.
Source: Office of Governor Tim Walz & Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan/Wikimedia Commons
Joyce Portk, a retiree from Lake Wynonah who attended the Trump event with her daughter, called Walz’s trip a “waste of time,” citing the lack of concrete policy proposals.
The Minneapolis Protests Still Loom Large
Like Halkias, many Trump supporters at the event pointed to Walz’s handling of the Minneapolis protests in 2020 as a major reason for their distrust.
Source: Spencer Platt/Getty Images
The protests, which erupted after George Floyd’s death, were marked by widespread unrest and damage. Rally attendees argue that Walz’s response was inadequate and fear he could allow similar unrest in Pennsylvania if he were elected.
Walz’s Image as a Centrist Challenged
Mary Lou Flores, a retired nurse, and her daughter Christine Mitchko, a software engineer, both expressed skepticism about how Walz is being portrayed.
Source: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images; kledge/Getty Images
“He seems pretty far left, and they’re kinda painting him as this centrist,” Mitchko said.
Military Record Controversy Casts a Shadow
One topic that repeatedly came up at the Harrisburg rally was Walz’s military record. Mitchko raised concerns over accusations of “stolen valor,” pointing out inconsistencies in Walz’s claims about his rank and service in the Army National Guard.
Source: @vivalaradicals/X
These accusations have added to the skepticism surrounding his candidacy, with some attendees demanding that Walz “speak truly” about his past.
Kristi Noem’s Comments Resonate
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s past relationship with Walz as a fellow congressman has been a point of discussion.
Source: Wikimedia
Rally attendees brought up her remarks, where she expressed shock over Walz’s transition from moderate congressman to what she now calls a “radical” governor.
Voters Want Specifics
As the November election approaches, Pennsylvania voters are growing increasingly frustrated with the Democratic ticket. Joyce Portk noted that Walz and Kamala Harris haven’t provided clear policy positions, making it difficult for voters to make informed decisions.
Source: @KamalaHarris/X
Rally attendees feel that the lack of specific proposals is a sign of weakness in the Harris-Walz campaign.
Walz’s Shift Alienates Former Allies
Tim Walz’s shift from a moderate to a more progressive stance has alienated some of his previous allies and supporters.
Source: Office of Governor Tim Walz & Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan/Wikimedia Commons
Many attendees at the Harrisburg rally were once open to his policies but have since grown wary
Walz’s Policy Failures Under Scrutiny
Rally-goers were quick to criticize Walz’s policies as governor, particularly his handling of law enforcement and crime.
Source: Office of Governor Tim Walz & Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan/Wikimedia Commons
His perceived leniency on crime has become a focal point of opposition to his candidacy.
Trump Supporters See a Clear Choice
For many attendees at the Trump town hall, the decision in 2024 is clear. Walz’s past actions and current platform have created a major contrast between the two tickets.
Source: @nicksortor/X
For Republican voters in Pennsylvania, Walz’s shift from moderate congressman to what they see as a radical governor leaves them with serious doubts about his suitability for higher office.
