Conflict between Walz’s “mind your own business” statement and COVID snitch program.

Democratic vice-presidential nominee Gov. Tim Walz recently took to the stage to celebrate individual freedom, but critics are questioning the sincerity of his message in light of his actions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During a campaign rally in Philadelphia with Vice President Kamala Harris, Walz criticized the Republican Party, claiming that they do not truly uphold the value of freedom. He asserted, “Some of us are old enough to remember when it was Republicans who were talking about freedom. It turns out now what they meant was the government should be free to invade your doctor’s office.”

However, conservatives have pointed out that Walz’s track record contradicts his self-proclaimed stance on personal freedom. Critics have highlighted his actions during the pandemic, including implementing COVID-19 lockdowns, mandating masks for children, and encouraging neighbors to report lockdown violations.

In response to the controversy surrounding Walz’s policies, Moms for Liberty co-founder Tiffany Justice stated, “He should take some of his own advice, because during COVID not only did he lock down schools and mask children, he encouraged neighbors to snitch on each other if they were taking their kid to the playground.”

One of the key issues that critics have raised is Walz’s memorandum mandating indoor masking during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the mandate was challenged by the Upper Midwest Law Center as unconstitutional, an appellate court ultimately upheld Walz’s decision.

Furthermore, Walz faced backlash for setting up a COVID-19 hotline in 2020, allowing residents to report their neighbors for suspected violations of lockdown measures. This move was heavily criticized for creating a culture of surveillance and division within communities.

House Majority Whip Tom Emmer expressed doubts about Walz’s leadership abilities, stating, “From overseeing the largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the country, to asking neighbors to tattle on one another for violating lockdown mandates, to forcing hospitalized COVID patients back into their nursing home facilities… Tim Walz proved during the pandemic he does not have the competency to lead in times of crisis.”

As the 2024 election approaches, the spotlight will continue to shine on Gov. Tim Walz’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of his policies on individual freedom. Critics and supporters alike are closely watching Walz’s campaign to see how he addresses these contentious issues and whether he can reconcile his past actions with his current message of celebrating personal liberty.