Understanding Tim Walz’s views and policies before the VP debate
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has rapidly progressed from a lesser-known figure to coining a potent attack line against Republicans and ultimately being considered as the Democratic vice presidential candidate this summer. His political journey began in 2006, winning a seat in the House of Representatives from a conservative district adjacent to Iowa, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Since assuming the governorship in 2019, his stance on numerous issues has shifted towards more liberal positions.
Let’s delve into where Gov. Tim Walz stands on various critical topics as he prepares for the upcoming vice presidential debate on Tuesday, as hosted by CBS News:
Tim Walz’s Views on Abortion and IVF
During his tenure as governor, Walz made history by signing legislation in 2023 that enshrined abortion rights in Minnesota, making it the first state to do so following the overturning of Roe v. Wade by the Supreme Court. The bill not only safeguards access to abortion but also protects contraception, fertility treatments, sterilization, and other reproductive health care services.
In a personal revelation, Walz and his wife Gwen shared their struggles with fertility after a controversial ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court earlier this year that classified frozen embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) as children under the law. This ruling had potential implications for wrongful death claims if an embryo did not survive the IVF process.
Speaking at the Democratic National Convention in August, Walz emotionally stated, “If you’ve never experienced the hell that is infertility, I guarantee you, you know somebody who has.” He opened up about the years of anguish and prayers they endured on their journey to conceive their daughter, Hope, through intrauterine insemination treatments (IUI).
The Israel-Gaza Conflict
Mirroring Vice President Kamala Harris’ stance, Walz expressed support for Israel’s right to self-defense in the wake of an attack by Hamas on October 7. Despite backing Israel, he also acknowledged the distress faced by Palestinians and emphasized the urgent need for a humanitarian resolution to the crisis.
Walz asserted, “The Palestinian people have every right to life and liberty themselves. It’s a humanitarian crisis. It can’t stand the way it is.” He advocated for a ceasefire for the safe return of hostages and emphasized the imperative of working towards a sustainable two-state solution.
Gun Control Policy
Having previously garnered an “A” grade from the NRA, Walz initially supported expanded access to firearms during his time in Congress, representing a rural district. However, his stance began to shift following the tragic Sandy Hook school shooting in 2012, prompting him to reconsider his position on an assault weapons ban.
His evolution on gun control continued as he transitioned into the gubernatorial race for Minnesota, openly criticizing the NRA and endorsing an assault weapons ban. As governor, he signed legislation mandating background checks for gun transfers and implementing a “red flag” law empowering law enforcement to intervene when an individual poses a risk to themselves or others with a firearm.
The State Economy
Minnesota found itself in a strong economic position in 2023, boasting a $17.5 billion budget surplus that facilitated the realization of Democratic priorities. Key initiatives included free school meals for all students from kindergarten to high school, tax rebates for low- and middle-income families, and tax adjustments affecting wealthy individuals and foreign corporations.
When Walz assumed office in 2019, the state’s unemployment rate stood at 3.3%, eventually reaching 11.2% amidst the COVID-19 pandemic before gradually stabilizing. Nonetheless, the state’s economic growth has trailed behind the national average, with a 1.6% increase in inflation-adjusted GDP compared to the 2.9% national rate in 2023.
Immigration Policy
Walz’s support for refugees marks a stark departure from his prior congressional vote concerning Syrian and Iraqi refugees. As governor, he advocated for the resettlement of refugees in Minnesota, emphasizing the state’s deep-rooted tradition of offering sanctuary to those in need.
His appeal to congressional Democrats in 2021 urged the establishment of a pathway to citizenship for essential workers, Dreamers, individuals with Temporary Protected Status, and their families. Notably, Walz signed a bill permitting undocumented immigrants in Minnesota to obtain driver’s licenses, enroll in state-run health insurance programs, and qualify for tuition-free college education.
Conclusion
As CBS News prepares to host the exclusive vice presidential debate featuring Gov. Tim Walz, his policy positions and trajectory from a local representative to a national contender underscore his dynamic evolution within the Democratic landscape. From reproductive rights and gun control to economic policies and immigration reform, Walz’s journey embodies a shift towards progressive ideals while retaining elements of his rural background.
Be sure to tune in to the debate between Vance and Walz on October 1 at 9 p.m. ET on CBS for comprehensive coverage, analysis, and fact-checking. Download the free CBS News app for a seamless viewing experience.
