GOP targets Tim Walz with childish new nickname, Internet calls them 'developmentally stunted'
WASHINGTON, DC: In a recent twist in the political landscape, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has become the subject of intense scrutiny after he was chosen as Kamala Harris' running mate in the 2024 presidential election.
This announcement has led to a flurry of activity, with individuals and political opponents alike delving into his history and political record.
Among the most vocal critics are Republicans, who have coined the derogatory nickname "Tampon Tim" for Walz, a moniker that stems from a 2023 bill he signed into law regarding menstrual products in schools, as per Distractify.
Tim Walz gets 'Tampon Tim' moniker from GOP leaders
Governor Tim Walz, known for his previous roles as a high school teacher and football coach, made headlines in 2023 when he signed an education finance bill mandating that all public and charter schools in Minnesota provide free access to menstrual products.
The law required that these products "must be available to all menstruating students," including those who use boys' restrooms. This inclusive language aimed to support all students, regardless of gender identity, but has drawn ire from anti-trans Republicans, according to the New York Times.
Critics have seized upon this legislation as a point of contention, accusing Walz of catering to what they describe as far-left liberal policies. Some have even labeled him a "pervert" for the inclusion of menstrual products in male-designated bathrooms.
Karoline Leavitt, a spokeswoman for Donald Trump's campaign, expressed her disapproval on Fox News, stating, "As a woman, I think there is no greater threat to our health than leaders who support gender-transition surgeries for young minors, who support putting tampons in men’s bathrooms in public schools. Those are radical policies that Tim Walz supports. He actually signed a bill to do that."
Governor Walz's advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights extends beyond the controversial menstrual products bill. He has been a vocal supporter of gay rights since his time as a high school teacher in the 1990s.
Under his administration, Minnesota has become a legal refuge for transgender individuals, with laws protecting access to gender-affirming care. In 2024, Walz further cemented his commitment to these issues by signing legislation safeguarding transgender rights in the state.
Despite the backlash from conservative circles, Walz's policies have garnered significant support from progressive groups and individuals who praise his inclusive approach.
The criticism he faces appears to be part of a broader GOP strategy to paint him as an extreme liberal, a portrayal that his supporters vehemently reject.
Republicans draw flak online in wake of 'Tampon Tim' controversy
The internet's reaction to the nickname "Tampon Tim" and the associated controversy has been swift. Social media users have expressed their displeasure with the Republican Party.
On X, one user commented, "Ain’t no way 'Tampon Tim' is an insult, especially from the party who wore Kotex Overnights on their ears two weeks ago! Providing free and accessible menstrual products should be the law of the land so, if this makes Walz a 'danger', then it’s time to get dangerous."
Ain’t no way “Tampon Tim” is an insult, especially from the party who wore Kotex Overnights on their ears two weeks ago!
— Candice Marie Benbow (@CandiceBenbow) August 6, 2024
Providing free and accessible menstrual products should be the law of the land so, if this makes Walz a “danger”, then it’s time to get dangerous.
Another remarked, "MAGA is so damn dumb. A man advocating for women & young girls. OF COURSE they think the hashtag #TamponTim is an insult. Such fools."
MAGA is so damn dumb. A man advocating for women & young girls. OF COURSE they think the hashtag #TamponTim is an insult. Such fools. https://t.co/pfJ4eB2Afa
— 𝔻𝕚𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕖𝕝𝕪 𝔸𝕟𝕟𝕖 🛡️H🌺M🌺A🌺L🛡️ (@DivinelyMeghan) August 6, 2024
"They'll die on the hill of being weird and creepy. They're a lost cause," one user opined. Another simply stated, "They are throwing everything at the wall in desperation."
They'll die on the hill of being weird and creepy. They're a lost cause... https://t.co/8vfVVA2blR
— Anim8erGirl_BlackLivesMatter_SheHer (@Anim8rgirl) August 6, 2024
They are throwing everything at the wall in desperation
— Sarcasm on the Horizon (@SarcasmHorizon) August 6, 2024
"They're developmentally stunted and never matured past the third grade," one person wrote. Another added, "These clowns are literally the bullies in high school that we all hated."
They're developmentally stunted and never matured past the third grade.
— Ruth Langmores Salty Attitude (@AnnieTehworst) August 6, 2024
These clowns are literally the bullies in high school that we all hated.
— Lucky12 (@Lucky1287634599) August 6, 2024
Someone else wrote, "It’s just a bridge too far for them to go. Helping others is foreign to them." Another individual said, "They really are a bunch of hapless losers."
It’s just a bridge too far for them to go. Helping others is foreign to them.
— GramiTami/Christian /#Kamala (@tamikirkland13) August 6, 2024
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.