Minnesota’s Democrat Governor Tim Walz is under fire nationwide after a disturbing Labor Day remark that many conservatives believe hinted at hoping for President Donald Trump’s death.
The backlash erupted when Walz, who was Kamala Harris’s failed running mate in 2024, joked about “waking up to news” during a picnic in Duluth, sparking laughter from his audience — but outrage across the country.
“Listen, I understand — you wake up in the morning and scroll through all the bad news,” Walz said to the crowd. “But I’ll say this: over the past few days, you probably woke up expecting to see some big headlines.”
The comment came just days after online conspiracy rumors falsely claimed Trump had died, a particularly sensitive subject given that the President has already survived two assassination attempts since returning to the White House.
Conservatives Call Walz’s Remarks ‘Sick’
Republicans and conservative leaders wasted no time blasting Walz for what they called a dangerous and disgraceful comment.
GOP House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) was one of the first to respond, writing on X:
“Taking shots at President Trump’s health is a new low, even for you. Wishing harm on someone doesn’t show leadership — it shows weakness. The people of Minnesota deserve better.”
Prominent journalist Salena Zito warned that Walz was openly pining for something “dire” to happen to Trump, writing:
“Walz practically admitted he expects tragedy to strike soon. This isn’t just vile — it proves Democrats have learned nothing since Butler.”
Other conservative voices joined in:
- Benny Johnson: “This guy is sick.”
- Johnny MAGA: “Schoolchildren were just shot in a Minnesota church last week — and THIS is what Walz is focused on? Disgusting.”
- Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN): “Tim Walz ‘toning down rhetoric,’ huh? There’s more fraud in his words than in his state government.”
- Paul A. Szypula: “What a monster.”
Conservative influencer John Jackson summed up the anger:
“Tell me again how we’re supposed to coexist with people who openly cheer for Trump’s death.”
Fox News Digital reached out to Walz’s office for comment but received no response.
Walz’s History of Extreme Anti-Trump Rhetoric
This isn’t the first time Walz has crossed the line. Last November, he urged Democrats to “bully the s*”** out of Trump and to “be a little meaner.”
Now, with his reputation already damaged by his failed Harris-Walz ticket, Walz admitted recently that voters may be tired of him:
“People get tired of it. I get tired of myself at times.”
Despite this, Walz has not ruled out running for reelection, setting the stage for what could be a heated campaign in 2026.
Trump Responds to ‘Fake News’ Death Rumors
The controversy erupted just as President Trump addressed the false online rumors about his health that spread like wildfire over Labor Day weekend.
“I didn’t do anything for two days, and they said, ‘There must be something wrong with him,’” Trump told reporters from the Oval Office.
“It’s fake news. I was very active over the weekend.”
The President even took a shot at his predecessor, Joe Biden:
“You never saw him, and nobody ever asked questions about his health. And we all know he wasn’t in great shape.”
Rumors had been fueled by an empty public schedule and recycled photos showing a small bruise on Trump’s hand. Trump reassured Americans he remains healthy, strong, and ready to lead.
Why This Matters
With political tensions at an all-time high, many conservatives argue that Walz’s reckless rhetoric is dangerous, especially given the two assassination attempts on President Trump.
By joking about tragedy, critics say Walz isn’t just showing poor judgment — he’s fueling hate at a time when the country desperately needs stability.
As Trump himself continues to focus on restoring law and order, Walz’s comments may come back to haunt Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections.