Tim Walz's daughter Hope shares Christmas message about migrants allegedly targeted by ICE
SAINT PAUL, MN: Hope Walz, the daughter of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, sparked online controversy after sharing a Christmas Eve video message that referenced immigration enforcement activities by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In the clip, Walz offered Christmas wishes while expressing concern for migrants and unhoused individuals she said were struggling.
The remarks prompted criticism from some social media users, who described the message as politically charged. Walz, a social worker with a large online following, has previously used social media to address political and social issues.
Holiday message and online reaction
In the Christmas Eve video posted to her social media accounts, Hope Walz addressed her followers with a seasonal greeting that included references to immigration enforcement.
“I just wanted to say Merry Christmas to all. Today I’m holding our neighbors that ICE has been t*****izing near and dear to my heart and sending them all the love and light as well as all the unhoused folks — just anybody that may be struggling right now I’m holding very close to me and I hope you can all do so as well,” Walz said in the clip.
She concluded, “this year has been a tough one for all of us.”
Hope Walz popped back on social media briefly for Christmas to remind everyone how much she loves illegals.
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) December 25, 2025
She says she’s sending love to the violent criminal illegals.
Of course, Hope completely ignores the American victims of illegals.
(hopewalz on TT) https://t.co/C4zpGUtg1s pic.twitter.com/k3t5kYiaow
The video quickly circulated online and drew sharp reactions from critics, some of whom accused Walz of overlooking other groups affected by crime or economic hardship.
One commenter wrote, “Of course, Hope completely ignores the American victims of illegals,” while another said, “Too bad she doesn’t care about unhoused Americans.”
Additional comments criticized the framing of her message and questioned her focus during a holiday traditionally associated with unity.
Walz has more than 555,000 followers on TikTok and has become a prominent progressive voice online, particularly after her father was selected as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate during the 2024 presidential campaign.
Context of immigration enforcement and political spotlight
The holiday message comes as ICE conducts enforcement operations in the Minneapolis area, which has a large immigrant population, including an estimated 80,000 residents with roots reportedly in East Africa.
The activity follows investigations into alleged large-scale fraud cases within parts of the migrant community, which state officials say resulted in significant financial losses to Minnesota's public assistance programs.
State authorities have said those investigations are ongoing.
Hope Walz has also been outspoken in responding to national political rhetoric involving her family.
She has criticized President Donald Trump in the past, including after comments he made about her father during the 2024 campaign.
In a previously posted video responding to those remarks, Walz said, “The president calling my dad what he did has unleashed a f***king s**t storm regarding offensive language towards me and my family and specifically my brother.” That video was later deleted.
