Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, underwent a notable transformation with regards to his stance on gun control. For much of his political career, he received consistent endorsements from the National Rifle Association (NRA) for his perceived pro-gun stance.
However, this started to change around 2018 amid increasing public concern over mass shootings in the United States. Walz, who had previously touted his “A” rating from the NRA during his bids for Congress, noticeably shifted his perspective on firearms legislation.
Several events were noted as significant in his transformation. The first was the Las Vegas shooting in 2017; the second was the high school shooting in Parkland, Florida in 2018, and the third was a school shooting in Santa Fe, Texas in the same year.
Following these tragic events, Walz began to advocate for “common sense” gun control measures. He called for expanded background checks on all gun sales, including those at gun shows and online, and supported a red flag law that would allow family members or law enforcement to petition a court to remove guns from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others.
This shift of stance also coincided with his run for governor in 2018. Walz stated that his growing concerns over the issue were informed by conversations with constituents, his experience as a public school teacher, and his role as a parent, making him reconsider the necessity of stricter gun control.
His transformation illustrates a growing divide in American politics, wherein politicians feel increasing pressure to
