Minnesota Governor Tim Walz delivered a pointed critique of President Donald Trump during a law school graduation ceremony, accusing him of repeatedly violating the rule of law and creating a national emergency. As the vice presidential nominee for 2024, Walz addressed graduates at the University of Minnesota’s law school, urging them to defend against abuses of power. He emphasized the critical role of lawyers as defenders of legal integrity amidst what he described as an unprecedented threat to the rule of law.
Walz highlighted several areas of concern, including Trump’s immigration policies, specifically the deportation of alleged gang members to a notorious prison in El Salvador and the controversial acceptance of a jet from the Qatari ruling family. He argued that such actions exemplify the erosion of legal principles that the nation’s founders feared, equating them to the actions of a tyrant exploiting power.
Following the electoral defeat of Kamala Harris by Trump, the Democratic Party has been engaged in internal discussions regarding its strategic direction, fueled by voter dissatisfaction over perceived inaction against the current administration. Walz is among several prominent Democrats preparing for potential 2028 presidential bids, having visited early voting states along with figures such as Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, who has criticized Democratic leadership for insufficient opposition to Trump.
Prominent Democrats, including President Joe Biden’s Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Senator Bernie Sanders, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have been actively engaging with constituents across the nation. Walz, alongside Maryland Governor Wes Moore, is scheduled to visit South Carolina shortly.
In his speech, Walz acknowledged the political nature of his comments but maintained that addressing these issues was essential to uphold his responsibilities. He criticized major law firms for their perceived complicity with Trump’s administration and urged new graduates to avoid aligning themselves with such entities as they enter the legal profession. Walz’s remarks were met with significant applause, underscoring the urgency and importance he places on protecting legal norms and principles.
