Tim Walz Visits the Minnesota State Fair

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. — Governor Tim Walz made a brief appearance at the Minnesota State Fair on Sunday, marking his first visit as the Democratic vice presidential nominee. This outing differs greatly from his previous experiences at the fair, where he had the freedom to explore over the full 12-day event.

Walz reflected on his new reality since joining the Democratic ticket. He shared, “I don’t get 12 days, which I usually get, and a little more disruption… but it’s exciting. We’re getting to talk about Minnesota across the country.”

His visit was notably short and tightly scripted, lasting just over thirty minutes. The event was heavily monitored, with U.S. Secret Service agents and local law enforcement present, some accompanied by K9 units. Attendees faced metal detectors before entering the Dairy Building, where Walz engaged much of his time.

He started his visit with a tasty pork chop on a stick, then served ice cream and milkshakes alongside his wife, Gwen, and daughter, Hope. Young staff at the dairy counter were surprised by his appearance, noting they only learned about it when the Secret Service arrived. Walz also engaged with this year’s Princess Kay of the Milky Way winner while admiring the butter sculptures.

Crowds enthusiastically greeted him, chanting his name and snapping photos throughout his time at the fair. While many attendees wore “Harris-Walz” paraphernalia, there were also some protestors outside holding signs saying “Never Walz.”

Kristen Lease from Eden Prairie expressed her excitement upon seeing Walz. She mentioned that her brother-in-law had tipped them off about his presence and described her feelings as “elated, excited, giddy.” She noted, “We’ve been extremely happy since he was named to be VP in August.”

Walz was chosen by Vice President Kamala Harris last month after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race, significantly reshaping the Democratic campaign landscape. Lease remarked on the renewed energy surrounding the party since these developments. “When Kamala Harris was announced, we felt hope, and when Tim Walz was announced as the VP nominee, that transitioned into joy,” she added. “I’ve done hope scrolling instead of doom scrolling online—I’m just really excited about them leading the country.”

In the month since his vice presidential nomination, Walz has been traveling extensively, advocating for his and Harris’s candidacy. His schedule continues with upcoming events in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.

Addressing the challenges of balancing governance and campaigning, Walz cited his effective team who helps manage his duties. “We appointed three great judges last week in Ramsey County, as you saw. Every night we review decision memos and meetings with commissioners to stay updated,” he explained.

During his brief interaction with reporters, Walz did not comment on the recent tragic news regarding hostages found dead in Gaza.

Gary Baron of Minnetonka expressed optimism about Walz’s potential vice presidency, considering the succession plan for Minnesota, which would elevate Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan if Walz becomes vice president. He stated, “I think Harris chose the right person for the right job. I think he’ll do a wonderful job when and if they get elected. And I think his lieutenant governor will do a phenomenal job as governor, coming in. So it’s a win-win for both the country and the state.”

On Labor Day, Walz is expected to engage with Minnesota labor leaders before heading to Milwaukee for another campaign event.

The Minnesota State Fair has always provided a vibrant backdrop for political candidates, and Walz is no stranger to it. Last year, he famously rode the slingshot with Hope and emphasized support for abortion rights during the 2022 gubernatorial reelection campaign.

Recently, Harris and Walz participated in their first significant television interview since becoming nominees on CNN, where they discussed various topics, including Walz’s National Guard service record. In a previous video, he mentioned “weapons of war”, a phrase he later clarified was misunderstood during a discussion following a school shooting. He expressed frustration over the attacks on both his children and his service record, stating firmly, “I never demean another member’s service in any way.”

The emotional moment captured during the Democratic National Convention when his son Gus tearfully shouted his pride in Walz as his father delivered his nomination speech remains a highlight for him. “I’m just grateful I got to experience that moment and I’m so proud of him,” Walz shared.

His wife recently spoke to media outlets, revealing that their son Gus, who deals with neurodivergence, is a “brilliant” teenager with unique strengths.