In a striking move amidst a politically charged climate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz declared his candidacy for a third term on Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025, aiming to build on his record in one of the nation's most consistently Democratic states.
According to Newsmax, Walz, who gained national attention as Kamala Harris' 2024 vice presidential running mate, shared his reelection plans through a short campaign video, focusing on past achievements and his ongoing dedication to Minnesota's future.
Walz, a two-term governor, has been a prominent figure in Minnesota, a state often regarded as a Democratic stronghold. His political profile rose significantly in 2024 when he was selected as the vice presidential candidate alongside Kamala Harris. Though the national bid was unsuccessful, Walz has stayed visible through frequent public appearances and speeches since the election.
Turning his focus back to state politics, Walz unveiled his reelection campaign with a 90-second video released on Sept. 16, 2025. The video adopted a down-to-earth tone, featuring Walz in blue jeans and flannel, accompanied by gentle country music and imagery of a pickup truck. It aimed to connect with everyday Minnesotans through this relatable style while spotlighting his tenure's highlights.
In the video, Walz pointed to key successes like implementing paid family leave and securing tax reductions for middle-class residents. He also asserted that Minnesota ranks highly as a place to raise families and operate businesses. These claims were presented as evidence of progress made under his leadership over the past two terms.
Walz used the campaign footage to address pressing issues, appearing alongside State House leader Melissa Hortman, who was tragically murdered. Their joint appearance served as a platform to discuss the critical topic of gun violence in the state. This moment underscored his intent to tackle serious societal concerns if reelected.
Sharing his thoughts in the video, Walz expressed deep affection for the state and its people. "I've been to every corner of Minnesota, and there's nothing like it. It's the best place on earth with the best people," he said. "I've seen how we help each other through tough times. And boy, we've seen terrible times this year," he added, acknowledging recent struggles.
Alongside the video, Walz took to X to reinforce his message of commitment to Minnesota's future. "I'm running for reelection to continue serving as Governor of Minnesota. We've made historic progress in our state, but we're not done yet," he posted. "I'm staying in the fight – and I need you with me," he urged, seeking backing from his supporters.
Throughout his governorship and beyond the 2024 election, Walz has been a vocal critic of the Trump administration. His public statements often reflect sharp disapproval of national policies and leadership decisions. This stance has kept him in the spotlight, even as he refocuses on state-level governance.
Despite his achievements, Walz has faced backlash for several verbal slip-ups in recent months. These incidents have raised questions about his communication style during public engagements. Critics have pointed to these errors as potential weaknesses in his campaign narrative.
One notable gaffe occurred at a Labor Day picnic in 2025, where Walz made an ill-received remark. "You get up in the morning and you doom-scroll through things … you woke up the last few days thinking there might be news. Just saying," he told the crowd. "There will be news sometime. There will be news," he continued, referencing social media speculation about President Donald Trump's death, which drew mixed reactions.
These missteps have added a layer of complexity to Walz's public image as he campaigns for another term. While his policy record remains a focal point, his recent comments have sparked debate among voters. Balancing these perceptions will be crucial as he seeks to maintain trust and support.
As Walz embarks on this reelection journey, his past achievements and current challenges will likely shape the race. His emphasis on family-friendly policies and economic benefits could resonate with many in Minnesota. Yet, addressing criticisms and maintaining a steady public presence will be key to his success.
Minnesota's status as a reliably Democratic state may provide Walz with a favorable backdrop for his campaign. However, national political dynamics and local concerns will still play significant roles in voter sentiment. The coming months will reveal how his message and record hold up under scrutiny.