(AP)
President Donald Trump is drawing criticism for refusing to reach out to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz following a deadly political attack allegedly carried out by a MAGA supporter in the state.
Speaking to CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, Trump dismissed the idea of contacting Walz after the killings, citing personal disdain for the Democratic governor.
“I don’t really call him,” Trump said. “He appointed this guy to a position. I think the governor of Minnesota is so whacked out. I’m not calling him.”
He went on to further criticize Walz’s leadership.
“He’s a mess,” Trump added. “So, you know, I could be nice and call him, but why waste time?”
The alleged gunman, Vance Boeltner, had been reappointed in 2019 to a workforce development advisory board by Gov. Walz. However, the governor’s office clarified that Walz had no personal knowledge of Boeltner. Boeltner was originally appointed to the board three years earlier by then-Gov. Mark Dayton, told NBC News.
Despite that clarification, Trump continued to use the connection to attack Walz, fueling further political tension in the wake of the tragic incident.
The president’s refusal to offer a call of condolence or cooperation has drawn bipartisan rebuke. Among the critics is New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, a Republican who has often distanced himself from Trump’s political style.
“It doesn’t help,” Sununu said. “It definitely doesn’t… Folks are forgetting people have lost their lives here.”
The incident and its political aftermath have sparked renewed debate over Trump’s influence and tone, particularly when tragedies occur under politically sensitive circumstances. Critics argue that Trump’s response shows a lack of leadership and empathy, especially when unity is called for.
Governor Walz has not directly responded to Trump’s remarks, but his office reiterated that the governor had no personal relationship with Boeltner and emphasized that the board appointment was a routine process.
As investigations into the politically motivated killings continue, Trump’s comments are once again putting his political instincts and his combative approach to opponents under the spotlight. With lives lost and emotions high, many are calling for compassion over conflict, a message some say Trump appears unwilling to embrace.
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