UPDATE: Tim Walz has officially announced the end of his political career, declaring he will “never run for elected office again.” This shocking decision comes in the wake of a series of scandals in Minnesota, including a massive fraud investigation and violent incidents involving ICE.
In an emotional statement made to MS Now just hours ago, Walz confirmed he will not pursue a third term as governor, a position he had attempted to retain amid mounting controversies. “Never again,” he emphasized, effectively shutting the door on future political ambitions, including a potential Senate run.
The decision follows a tumultuous period marked by a daycare fraud scandal that has already seen over 90 individuals charged, primarily from the Somali community. Prosecutors allege that the Feeding Our Future program misappropriated $250 million in federal funds intended for child nutrition during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, the money was allegedly used for luxury purchases, including Lamborghinis and beachfront properties.
Walz, who was previously the Democratic vice-presidential nominee alongside Kamala Harris in 2024, acknowledged the weight of these issues during his announcement. “This is on my watch. I am accountable for this,” he stated last month, vowing to address the crisis. However, conversations with family led him to conclude he could not fully commit to a campaign under these circumstances.
The fallout from the fraud scandal has been exacerbated by violent confrontations in Minneapolis involving ICE, including the recent shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Walz had previously called for ICE to withdraw from the city in response to these tragic events. He praised the activists who protested against federal agents, indicating a shift in focus from political office to community service.
With Walz stepping aside, Senator Amy Klobuchar is expected to be the primary Democratic candidate for the upcoming gubernatorial election. Klobuchar, a seasoned politician, won her last election in 2024 with over 56 percent of the vote, making her a formidable contender in a state that typically leans Democratic.
This rapid decline in Walz’s political fortunes highlights the intense scrutiny and turbulence within Minnesota politics. Just months ago, he was seen as a strong candidate for re-election, but the growing discontent among party members regarding his viability has now culminated in his abrupt exit from the political stage.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the upcoming midterm elections, where Minnesota’s political landscape is poised for significant change. Walz’s resignation marks a pivotal moment, reshaping the Democratic strategy in the state and raising questions about the future of governance amidst ongoing investigations.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
