Gavin Newsom, Kamala Harris praise Tim Walz after Minnesota governor says he won’t seek reelection

WASHINGTON, DC: Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris wasted no time backing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz after he said he won’t run for reelection on Monday, January 5.

They stepped in fast, defending him against critics and highlighting everything he’s done in office.

With everyone watching Minnesota and wondering what this means for Democrats, their support made it clear they stand with Walz.

Gavin Newsom praises Tim Walz’s character and service

The California governor publicly lauded Walz in a social media post, emphasizing his leadership qualities and long career in public service.

“Tim Walz is a man of character, strength, and compassion. He has served Minnesota with heart and dignity,” Newsom wrote.

He added, “Minnesota -- and America -- is better off thanks to his lifelong public service. Wishing him all the best in this next chapter. Thank you, @Tim_Walz.”

Newsom didn’t see Walz’s departure as a setback.

Instead, he described it as the end of a chapter defined by hard work and honesty.

He sounded a lot like other Democratic leaders around the country who’ve praised Walz for guiding Minnesota through tough times, especially during the pandemic and those stretches of serious social unrest.

Kamala Harris calls Tim Walz's decision ‘selfless commitment’

Former Vice President Harris released a long statement after talking directly with Walz, giving him a personal nod for his leadership and drive.

She said Walz’s choices over the years really showed his values.

“I spoke with Governor Walz today, and what was clear, as it has been throughout his career, is that his decisions are always guided by what’s best for the people of Minnesota,” said Harris.

“Tim has spent his life in public service putting Minnesotans first, leading with integrity, compassion, and a deep respect for working families,” she added.

Harris characterized his decision not to seek reelection as reflective of that same ethos, calling it a "selfless commitment" to the people he serves.

“His decision not to seek reelection reflects that same selfless commitment to the people he serves. I want to thank him for his extraordinary leadership,” Harris noted. 

Walz ran for vice president alongside Democratic presidential nominee Harris in 2024.

Harris also extended well wishes to Walz’s family, writing that the country is “stronger because of Tim’s service” and expressing gratitude for his friendship.

Walz pointed to personal reasons and wanting to make space for new leaders as the main reasons behind his decision not to seek reelection.

Walz first became governor in 2018, after his time in Congress.

He made a name for himself as a Midwestern Democrat, a former teacher, and a National Guard veteran.

During his time in office, he pushed for big policy changes and faced some tough, high-profile moments that put Minnesota right in the national spotlight.

Republicans have criticized Walz for his handling of fraud involving the state's social safety net programs. Walz has said that his government is taking measures to prevent future fraud.