Trump’s Baseless Attacks on Tim Walz: A Disgraceful Assault on a Veteran’s Legacy
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By Peter Cooke, Major General, U.S. Army, (Ret.)
Donald Trump’s recent attack on Governor Tim Walz’s military service is a deeply misguided and disrespectful attempt to undermine a dedicated and patriotic serviceman. It is both ironic and appalling that someone who has never donned the uniform nor demonstrated any willingness to serve his country would question the dedication and sacrifices of a seasoned veteran like Governor Walz. This blatant hypocrisy not only insults Walz but disrespects the entire military community.
Governor Tim Walz, now the Democratic nominee for Vice President, served honorably in the National Guard for 24 years. He enlisted in the Nebraska Army National Guard at the young age of 17 before transferring to the Minnesota National Guard. Over his two decades of service, Walz rose to the rank of Command Sergeant Major, one of the highest enlisted positions. His military career was marked by numerous leadership roles, extensive training exercises, disaster response missions, and an overseas deployment to Italy in 2003.
The National Guard plays a crucial role in the security and well-being of the United States. Guardsmen are often the first responders in times of natural disasters, civil unrest, and national emergencies. They train rigorously to maintain readiness and are frequently called upon to support active-duty forces in overseas missions. Governor Walz exemplified the excellence and character required of a Guardsman. His peers and subordinates consistently speak highly of his leadership, dedication, and ability to inspire others.
Donald Trump’s disdain for order and respect for service has been evident throughout his life and political career. Trump’s actions during the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol illustrate his disregard for the rule of law and democratic principles. Despite his oath to protect the Constitution, Trump incited a violent mob that endangered the lives of law enforcement officers and legislators.
Trump’s lack of support for law enforcement has been a recurring theme. His administration’s inconsistent and often antagonistic stance toward various law enforcement agencies undermined their work and morale. Additionally, Trump’s lifetime of fraud and lies, including the misrepresentation of his business successes and numerous instances of legal and ethical violations, highlight his service to no one but himself.
Trump’s playbook of demonizing the military, veterans, and military families is extensive. He has repeatedly shown contempt for those who serve. Trump reportedly called fallen soldiers “suckers” and “losers” during a visit to France, a claim corroborated by multiple sources. His disdain extended to the late Senator John McCain, whom he mocked for being captured during the Vietnam War, saying, “I like people who weren’t captured.”
By contrast, After his military career, Tim Walz continued his commitment to public service by running for Congress. He won six consecutive terms, representing Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District, a significant achievement considering it had only been represented by one other Democrat in more than a century. In Congress, Walz served as the Ranking Member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee and on the House Armed Services Committee. In these roles, he championed numerous initiatives to support veterans and military families, including the passage of the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Forever GI Bill.
Walz’s legislative accomplishments are numerous and impactful. His leadership in Congress also led to the passage of the Clay Hunt SAV Act, which aims to reduce veteran suicides. He consistently defended these benefits from budget cuts. During his tenure, Walz also exposed mismanagement and corruption within the VA under the Trump administration, ensuring transparency and accountability in the VA’s multi-billion-dollar electronic health record project.
As governor of Minnesota, Walz has continued to support veterans and military families. His administration has improved National Guard readiness, provided bonuses for service and retention, and tackled veteran homelessness with significant success. The expansion of the Minnesota GI Bill under his leadership has further increased educational opportunities for veterans, ensuring they can transition smoothly into civilian life.
Tim Walz’s career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to our nation and its defenders. He embodies the values of service, honor, and commitment. Donald Trump, who has only served himself, has repeatedly disrespected those who have given their all for this country. His attacks on Governor Walz are baseless and desperate attempts to undermine a dedicated and patriotic serviceman. The record speaks for itself: Governor Walz has, and always will, put the needs of our veterans and military families first.
Governor Walz’s service record, both in uniform and in public office, powerfully rebukes Trump’s baseless attacks. It is a testament to the profound difference between those who truly serve their country and those who merely pay lip service to the ideals of patriotism and sacrifice.
Major General Cooke (retired) was the former Commanding General of the U.S. Army 96th Regional Readiness Command, the largest geographical Command in the Army Reserves, from 2005 to 2009.
