Former President Donald Trump sat down for a televised interview on “Fox and Friends” Wednesday morning, during which he reflected on his only interaction with presumptive Democratic vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Trump expressed surprise and disbelief that Harris had chosen Walz to join her ticket, citing his liberal views and recalling his “only” personal experience with the governor.
The former president explained that during the height of Black Lives Matter riots in 2020, Walz had called him for help as his mansion in St. Paul was surrounded by protesters. Trump said that Walz was “very, very concerned” about the situation and was worried about it getting out of control. The demonstrations, known as “Liberate Minnesota,” were in response to the governor’s COVID-19 lockdown orders that were causing frustration among business owners and citizens alike.
Trump recalled that Walz had only one guard stationed at his mansion and had reached out to him for assistance. The former president said that Walz had asked him to “put out the word” that he was a good person, and Trump obliged. He sent out tweets encouraging protesters to “LIBERATE” states such as Virginia, Michigan, and Minnesota. As a result, the protesters took down their American flags and “MAGA” flags and left the premises.
“I said, ‘he’s a good person. I hope everything’s good.’ And everybody put down their flags and took their flags with them,” Trump recounted. “But they took the American flags and their MAGA flags and they left. It was thousands of people. And that was the first time I said, ‘Wow, that’s very interesting.’ And he called me back and he thanked me very much. That’s my only thing I ever had to do with him.”\
Received a very nice call from @GovTimWalz of Minnesota. We are working closely on getting him all he needs, and fast. Good things happening!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 20, 2020
Trump highlighted the fact that Walz’s call for help came during a time when many governors, particularly Democratic ones, were criticizing his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He pointed out that Walz had thanked him and acknowledged his willingness to work with him, contrary to other governors such as Washington’s Jay Inslee who accused Trump of “fomenting domestic rebellion.”
As a Minnesotan, I couldn’t be more proud to be out in front of the Governor’s Mansion today with all these great patriots!
This transcends politics, folks.
This is about making certain we keep our liberties!
It’s time to liberate Minnesota and #ReopenMN for business! pic.twitter.com/8AhAVCiL6b
— Jason Lewis (@LewisforMN) April 17, 2020
Despite his initial surprise at Harris’ choice, Trump expressed that he was “thrilled” with Walz as the vice presidential pick. He also reiterated his belief that Walz was a “very, very liberal man,” making his selection even more surprising.
"If you're going to protest, at least social distance." – @GovTimWalz in response to "Liberate Minnesota" protestors outside Governor's Mansion. @WCCO
— Marielle Mohs (@MarielleMohs) April 17, 2020
Trump’s recount of his only interaction with Tim Walz paints a positive picture of the governor. His willingness to reach out for help and his gratitude towards Trump’s response showcase a different side of the liberal politician, one that is willing to put differences aside and work with the former president for the good of his state.
LIBERATE MINNESOTA!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 17, 2020
LIBERATE MICHIGAN!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 17, 2020
Trump’s experience with Walz highlights his leadership skills and willingness to listen and work with others, making him a valuable asset to the Democratic ticket.
& then Trump aided Gov Walz & see how he pays back Today.
Backstabber, Coiward, Losew