Local Members of the State Legislature React to Walz Not Seeking Re-election

Governor Walz announced on Monday that he would no longer seek to be re-elected as Minnesota’s governor.  Below are a few responses and reactions from local leaders.

Rep. Cal Warwas (R):

“Governor Tim Walz gave a speech today, confirming that he will not seek re-election, after all.

His words were disappointing, but unsurprising.

My thoughts? Walz has no regrets, blames Republicans, blames Donald Trump, and blames fraudsters for the need to step aside and focus on his job. While it makes sense he can't effectively campaign and govern simultaneously, he maintains he would still win if he stayed in the race - that is the ego that we've come to know, and that pride would have been his undoing.

Tim Walz was extremely vulnerable as a candidate. He is damaged goods because of his awful performance as governor, and was a massive liability to every DFL candidate down-ballot in this election year.

Walz talks about fraudsters taking advantage of our "generous" state. I'm truly fatigued by him mistaking "government funds" for taxpayer dollars, and being too benevolent with those dollars. My constituents are beyond angry at the daily increase in the cost of living under Tim's leadership, and we all should be.

The fight goes on. Fraud and government blunders won't end just because Walz is off the ticket. Minnesota needs a Republican governor to right this ship.”

Sen. Grant Hauschild (DFL):

“Governor Tim Walz has dedicated his career to public service, and his decision not to seek re-election deserves respect and appreciation. Minnesota is stronger because of his leadership, his decency, and his commitment to doing the right thing even when it was not politically easy.

I am especially grateful for Governor Walz’s partnership and support in elevating critical work for northern Minnesota. From addressing the rural ambulance crisis and ensuring laid off steelworkers received extended unemployment benefits when they needed it most, to advancing meaningful permitting reform that protects communities while allowing responsible projects to move forward, Governor Walz stood with us in those priorities to get them across the finish line.

As Minnesota looks ahead, it is essential that we recommit to taking politics out of the fight against fraud. Minnesotans expect accountability, transparency, and real solutions. They also expect leaders who are serious about protecting taxpayers while not losing sight of the people and communities that rely on essential services. That work must continue with focus, integrity, and cooperation.

The future of our state depends on lifting up the next generation of leaders while valuing the experience and wisdom of those who helped get us here. Tim Walz will continue to play a crucial role in Minnesota’s future and in the DFL, and I look forward to continuing to work with him as we focus on delivering results for Minnesotans.”

Sen. Keri Heintzman (R):

“Governor Walz’s decision not to seek reelection is good news for Minnesota. Last week, I said it was time for him to step aside because our state needs accountability, honesty, and leadership that puts people first. His decision moves Minnesota in the right direction.

But Minnesotans should be clear about one thing. Stepping aside does not erase the damage done, and it does not end the need for accountability. Governor Walz and his administration still owe Minnesota taxpayers clear answers about the years of failed leadership, unchecked fraud, and a culture where too few people were held responsible.

Minnesotans have paid a heavy price. Families, seniors, students, and taxpayers deserve better than excuses and delays. We deserve real consequences for wrongdoing, recovery of misused funds where possible, and serious reforms that prevent this from happening again.

This is a chance for our state to turn the page and restore trust in government, but trust will not be restored until accountability is real. Minnesota deserves leadership that takes responsibility seriously, and a government that finally proves it can protect taxpayer dollars.”