Ron Johnson Criticizes Tim Walz for Wedding Date

Republican Senator Ron Johnson has launched a pointed critique of Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz, highlighting what he perceives as troubling connections to China. During an appearance on Fox Business, Johnson labeled Walz a “radical leftist” and raised concerns about his marriage occurring on the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square protests. Johnson, a member of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, suggested that the mainstream media would overlook Walz's background, while asserting that the House would investigate his ties to China. Walz, the Minnesota governor, has faced scrutiny from conservative allies of Donald Trump, particularly following his selection as Kamala Harris's running mate. Despite various attacks aimed at discrediting him, including accusations of being a communist, the focus on his connections to China remains a persistent theme. Walz's experience in China dates back to 1989 when he taught English and American culture in Guangdong province, an experience he has described as transformative. The timing of Walz's marriage to Gwen Whipple on June 4, 1994, coinciding with the Tiananmen Square anniversary, has drawn particular attention. The couple's honeymoon in China, accompanied by students, was framed by Walz as a memorable occasion. Since entering Congress in 2007, Walz has taken a strong stance on human rights issues, often opposing the Chinese government, including co-sponsoring motions condemning human rights abuses and supporting democracy in Hong Kong.