Walz's Claim on War Weapons Questioned
- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a Democratic candidate, claimed weapons he used in war should not be on the streets, though he did not serve in combat.
- This statement has sparked controversy and raised questions about his credibility.
- Critics argue that such claims can mislead the public about issues related to gun control and veterans.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is facing criticism regarding his military service following a controversial statement made during a recent speech. In a video shared on social media platform X, Walz claimed, "I spent 25 years in the Army and I hunt," while discussing gun control measures. His remarks have drawn backlash, particularly from retired Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Behrends, who served in Walz's battalion and accused the governor of misrepresenting his military experience. The Minnesota National Guard clarified that while Walz was part of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) during his time stationed in Italy in 2005, he retired before his unit was deployed into combat. This detail has fueled the debate over Walz's claims, as critics argue that he left his troops behind. According to the National Guard, serving in support of OEF qualifies as official service, regardless of whether one was deployed to Afghanistan. In the wake of these revelations, Walz's office did not provide a direct response to the allegations, instead issuing an automated reply. The governor's military record has become a focal point as he was recently announced as the running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris on the Democratic national ticket. As the political landscape heats up, Walz's opponents, including Republican candidate J.D. Vance, have intensified their attacks, accusing him of abandoning his fellow soldiers during a critical time.