Walz sees Minnesota reforms as national model

ST. PAUL, Minn. – In his State of the State address to the Legislature, Governor Tim Walz proclaimed Minnesota a national leader in family-oriented reforms. Walz, a Democrat, pointed to reforms already approved by the Democrat-controlled 2023 Legislature:

> Protection of abortion as a right.

> Gender-affirming care.

> Driver licenses regardless of immigration status.

> Voting rights for felons on release from prison.

> A 2040 goal for carbon-free electricity production by 2040.

> Free school lunches for all children.

Walz characterized Minnesota as a new beacon. He called the state a new refuge for patients coming from other states for abortions and trans-gender youth. He jabbed at states with Republican leadership fighting against racial equity and fixated on cultural flashpoints. “I’ve seen some of these other governors on TV — they spend a lot of time on TV — and they’re always talking about ‘freedom,’” Walz said. “But it turns out what they mean is that government should be free to invade your bedroom, your children’s locker room, and your doctor’s office.” Walz targeted DeSantis without naming him. “It’s not up to me how folks in places like Florida go about their business,” he said. “But I have to tell you, I’m pretty glad we do things our way and not their way.” About the DeSantis Florida initiatives to purge books and schools and even colleges on sensitive issues and to punish theme park giant Disney for gay-friendly policies, Walz said: “If there’s one thing I hope folks in other states take away from what we’re doing here in Minnesota, it’s this: It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you stop complaining about corporations going ‘woke’ and start giving a damn about the real lives of real people.” The governor renewed his call for direct tax rebates from the state’s enormous $17.5 billion budget surplus.

Verbatim

Walz on gun safety: “I’m not going to stand by and let anyone make this about the Second Amendment when it’s really about our first responsibility to our kids: keeping them safe. And I’m not going to let anyone hide behind thoughts and prayers when what we need is action now.”

On civility: “The forces of hatred and bigotry are on the march in states across this country and around the world. “But let me say this now, and let me be very clear about this: ‘That march stops at Minnesota’s borders.’”

On being a model: “We have another chance to be America’s North Star — an opportunity to carve out a corner of our country where no child is left hungry. Where no community is left behind. And nobody gets told they don’t belong.”

Cheers, solemnity

Democrats who dominate both houses of the Minnesota Legislature were ebullient, at times boisterous, at Walz’ report. He was interrupted time and again by standing applause. Republicans, seated on right side of the House chamber, were straight-faced, immobile and silent – polite but glum.