Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, now the Democratic Party vice-presidential candidate, addressed lingering questions about his military service during a recent interview on CNN.
The discussion focused on past remarks and recent criticisms concerning his time in the National Guard, and during their first joint interview as running mates, Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Walz faced scrutiny over Walz’s military service and past statements, as CBS News reports.
In a 2018 video, following the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Walz discussed his decision to stop accepting donations from the National Rifle Association (NRA). He referred to the “weapons of war” he carried during his military service, which has since become a point of contention.
CNN anchor Dana Bash directly questioned Walz about his 2018 statement, emphasizing that Walz had never served in a war zone. When asked if he had misspoken, Walz responded by acknowledging potential issues with his grammar but stood by the sentiment behind his words.
Walz reiterated his pride in serving the National Guard for 24 years, highlighting his commitment and integrity. He noted that while his choice of words might have been imperfect, his record of service should not be diminished by such criticisms.
Republican opponents, including former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, have used Walz’s military record as a campaign talking point. Vance, an Iraq War veteran, has been particularly vocal in his criticism, accusing Walz of avoiding deployment during his time in the military.
Vance argued that Walz strategically retired from the National Guard just before his unit’s deployment to Iraq in 2005. However, Walz’s retirement paperwork indicates that it was filed months before deployment orders were issued.
Despite the accusations, Walz has consistently defended his service. He emphasized that his decision to retire was not made with the intent to avoid deployment and that he has always respected the unwritten code of conduct among servicemembers.
Amid the criticisms, Joseph Eustice, a former leader of Walz’s battalion, publicly defended the governor’s military record. Eustice described Walz as a competent and dedicated soldier who served his country honorably for 24 years.
Walz’s official records list him as a retired Command Sergeant Major. However, due to paperwork issues, he technically retired as a master sergeant. Despite this discrepancy, his leadership and service are well-regarded by those who served with him. In his interview, Walz emphasized the importance of respecting other servicemembers’ records, asserting that he has never, and will never, denigrate another person’s military service.
The criticism of Walz’s military service is expected to continue as the campaign progresses. Walz and Vance are scheduled to debate face-to-face on Oct. 1, an event likely to bring further scrutiny to their records. Harris and Trump are also set to debate on September 10th, where the issue of military service may again be a focal point.
Walz concluded the interview by reaffirming his pride in his service, despite the attacks. “I am damn proud of my service to this country,” he declared, reinforcing his commitment to his military record and his belief in the importance of respecting others’ service.
The debate over Walz’s military service, particularly his retirement from the National Guard, continues to be a significant issue in the campaign. As the election draws closer, the scrutiny is likely to intensify, with both sides seeking to use the issue to their advantage.
