Minnesota Private Business Council President Jim Schultz has expressed concerns about Governor Tim Walz's potential role as Vice President, citing his handling of the 2020 riots and his perceived lack of media engagement.
Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota and Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate, has faced criticism for his leadership style and media avoidance. Jim Schultz, President of the Minnesota Private Business Council, has expressed particular concern about Walz's potential role as Vice President.
Schultz cited Walz's handling of the 2020 riots in Minneapolis as a major concern. Walz's decision to activate the National Guard was widely criticized as being too slow and inadequate. The riots resulted in widespread damage and loss of life, and Schultz believes that Walz's leadership failed to effectively restore order and protect the safety of residents.
Tim Walz's 'Disturbing' Leadership Sparks Concerns Among Minnesota Business Leaders
Atlantic staff writer Mark Leibovich has also raised concerns about Walz's lack of media engagement. Walz has largely avoided national media interviews since becoming the Democratic vice presidential candidate, despite his previous effectiveness as a messenger for the campaign. Leibovich argues that Walz's absence from the spotlight is a missed opportunity to showcase his talents and engage with the public.
Despite these concerns, some Democratic leaders have praised Walz as a capable and effective leader. Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan described Walz as a compassionate and resourceful individual who is always willing to lend a helping hand. Leibovich also notes that Walz's rallies have been well-attended and enthusiastic, suggesting that he remains a popular figure among supporters.
Tim Walz's 'Disturbing' Leadership Sparks Concerns Among Minnesota Business Leaders
Walz is scheduled to participate in a vice presidential debate with Republican candidate Sen. JD Vance on Tuesday. The debate will be hosted by CBS News and moderated by Margaret Brennan and Norah O'Donnell. It is expected to be a pivotal moment in the campaign, as both candidates seek to sway voters and solidify their platforms.
Harris has also faced criticism for her limited media engagement. She waited over a month after becoming the Democratic vice presidential candidate to grant an interview, and her subsequent media appearances have been infrequent. Critics argue that her avoidance of the press is a sign of arrogance and disrespect for the public's right to be informed.
Tim Walz's 'Disturbing' Leadership Sparks Concerns Among Minnesota Business Leaders
Harris' media avoidance has drawn comparisons to former Vice President Joe Biden, who was similarly criticized for his limited media engagement during his tenure. Some observers believe that the lack of transparency and accountability resulting from such media avoidance could damage the reputation of both Harris and the Biden administration.
Harris did grant an interview to Oprah Winfrey, who endorsed Harris at the Democratic National Convention. Winfrey's endorsement was seen as a significant boost for Harris' campaign, as Winfrey is a highly respected and influential figure. The interview with Winfrey was widely viewed as a positive and effective media appearance for Harris.
The concerns raised about Tim Walz's potential role as Vice President and Kamala Harris' lack of media engagement cast a shadow over the Democratic campaign. As the election approaches, both candidates will need to address these criticisms and demonstrate their commitment to transparency and accountability to the American people.
