What To Know About Tim Walz's 24-Year Military Career
Aug 12, 2024
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Tamara Keith, a senior White House correspondent; Quil Lawrence, a veterans correspondent; and Ron Elving, a senior political editor, dive into Tim Walz's military career and its impact on his political life. They discuss the controversies surrounding his military service, particularly the timing of his retirement just before deployment. The conversation also touches on the legacy of political attacks on military service and the changing dynamics of election strategies, revealing how personal histories can shape political narratives.
Tim Walz's military background, while extensive, has faced scrutiny for his portrayal and timing of retirement amid political aspirations.
The controversy surrounding Walz's service reflects broader issues of authenticity and partisanship in political rhetoric and campaigning.
Deep dives
Tim Walz's Military Background Under Scrutiny
Tim Walz, the Minnesota Governor and Vice President Harris's running mate, has a military background that is being examined amidst political attacks. With 24 years in the National Guard, including time spent in Europe supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, Walz holds a notable military record, although he did not see combat. His prior statements, particularly regarding gun control, have raised questions about how he has portrayed his military service. The criticisms intensified when video surfaced where he improperly stated he carried weapons in war, prompting allegations of 'stolen valor,' which the campaign later clarified was a misinterpretation.
Controversy Surrounding Walz's Retirement Timing
Walz's decision to retire from the National Guard just before his unit was likely to be deployed to Iraq has sparked controversy. Although he had shown interest in running for Congress and retired before any official deployment notice, critics allege that he may have backed away knowing the unit was soon to be sent to combat. Some from his unit have claimed that Walz should have remained in service during this critical time, framing his retirement as a form of abandonment. This narrative remains contested, as many argue that after 24 years of service, his choice to retire should be respected.
The Political Impact of Swift Boat Tactics
The mounting scrutiny over Walz's military service parallels the historical precedent set by the 'Swift Boat Veterans for Truth' campaign against John Kerry in 2004. This reference highlights how political attacks can distort public perception, even when the underlying allegations are unfounded. While the Harris campaign initially emphasized Walz's military credentials, they later shifted focus towards his roles as a teacher and coach, illustrating a tactical response to the controversy. The episode reveals the broader implications of weaponizing military service in political discourse, particularly as voters weigh the significance of authenticity against the backdrop of partisanship.
In 2018, Tim Walz said he carried weaponry "in war" when pushing for gun control, despite never serving in combat. He also said he chose to retire from the military after 24 years, shortly before his unit deployed to Iraq, in order to focus on his run for Congress.
This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, veterans correspondent Quil Lawrence, and senior political editor and correspondent Ron Elving.
The podcast is produced by Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our intern is Bria Suggs. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.
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