Democrat from Minnesota supports Walz and disagrees with GOP’s criticism
Nick Frentz, a Democratic state senator from Minnesota, is stepping up to defend vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz against claims surrounding his leadership and criticism over state policy.
According to several Republican state lawmakers who spoke to Fox News, Walz was reportedly “difficult” to collaborate with during their time working alongside him in the legislature.
In an exclusive interview, Frentz described Walz as an authentic, down-to-earth individual. He emphasized Walz’s honesty, genuine rural roots, and commitment to all Americans, especially those in rural areas, based on his track record. He said, “His rural roots are real, and his commitment to everybody in the country, including rural America, is quite real. And I think his record says that.”
When questioned about the criticisms of Walz’s leadership style, Frentz defended the governor by highlighting the bipartisan legislation they have passed together. He clarified that disagreements do exist, but overall, the state has benefited from their collaborative efforts, stating, “We haven’t always agreed, and so if ‘difficult’ to work with means we don’t always agree, then I guess. But I think a better description would be he’s a Democrat governor in a state that leans Democrat.”
Furthermore, Frentz refuted allegations that Walz leans far to the left, an accusation made by Minnesota GOP Chair David Hann and the Trump campaign. Instead, Frentz praised Walz for his support of biofuels, water infrastructure projects for rural areas, and tax policies beneficial to rural Minnesota. He emphasized Walz’s dedication to the state, saying, “We support a tax policy, including cuts to Social Security taxes. So all of those things show a commitment to greater Minnesota. And as he used to say, ‘I don’t just represent greater Minnesota. I wake up there.’
Despite the accolades, Walz has faced heavy criticism for his response to the 2020 riots following the murder of George Floyd. Frentz defended the governor’s stance on the protests, stating that while peaceful assembly is a fundamental right, property damage is unacceptable. He reiterated that every state leader must uphold the balance between freedom of expression and protection of public safety.
Highlighting Walz’s advocacy for rural America, Frentz commended the governor’s ability to support policies beneficial to rural communities while opposing harmful initiatives. He emphasized Walz’s inclusive leadership style, stating, “I have never heard him say a bad word about southern Minnesotans, whether they vote Republican or Democrat.”
Frentz concluded by emphasizing the importance of having a leader like Walz, who not only talks about rural issues but also takes concrete actions to address them. He highlighted Walz’s hands-on engagement with rural communities, his focus on agricultural issues, and his legislative accomplishments that benefit rural America.
