In a prime-time speech on Wednesday, Governor Tim Walz (D-MN) formally accepted the Democratic vice presidential nomination, highlighting his diverse background as a teacher, football coach, and former member of the U.S. Army National Guard.
Walz, a former high school football coach, frequently referenced the sport throughout his speech, earning “Coach Walz” chants from the convention floor. Delegates waved “Coach Walz” signs, and his former players took the stage, wearing their jerseys.
Walz also shared personal anecdotes, including his family’s struggles with infertility and the birth of his daughter, Hope. He emotionally recounted the experience, saying, “Gwen and I had access to fertility treatments, and when our daughter was born, we named her Hope. Hope, Gus, and Gwen, you are my entire world, and I love you.”
Walz’s son, Gus, was visibly emotional during his father’s speech, yelling “that’s my dad” and crying.
The Minnesota governor took jabs at former President Donald Trump, saying, “When I was teaching, we’d elect a student body president. And you know what, those teenagers can teach Donald Trump a hell of a lot.”
Walz’s military service has been under scrutiny since his nomination, with Republicans accusing him of lying about his record and abandoning his unit before deployment to Iraq. However, Walz proudly touted his 24 years of service in the Army National Guard, saying he joined at 17 and “proudly wore our nation’s uniform.”
The controversy surrounding Walz’s military record has been ongoing, with some members of his unit expressing resentment that he retired before deployment. Additionally, there has been confusion about Walz’s rank at retirement, with some claiming he was a command sergeant major, while others say he was reverted to master sergeant for benefits purposes.
Despite the controversy, Walz’s speech focused on his commitment to public service and his family. He was formally nominated by Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Ben Ingman, a former student and next-door neighbor.
