As the 2026 Minnesota gubernatorial election season approaches, I visited Lake Harriet to ask Minnesotans about their views on Gov. Tim Walz — his policies, accomplishments, and how he compares to political figures like President Donald Trump.
I approached dozens of individuals on the street. Responses varied, but several key themes emerged around education, public health, and political polarization.
Reviews of Walz’s leadership
When asked whether they supported Gov. Walz, Minnesotans offered a mix of praise and skepticism. One respondent said they appreciated “free lunches at schools,” while another highlighted Walz’s efforts toward supporting individuals with disabilities.
However, not all supporters could articulate what he had accomplished. One man who said he was a fan of Gov. Walz paused and struggled to name a specific achievement.
Others were more critical. Several people expressed dissatisfaction with Walz’s handling of the George Floyd incident and the COVID-19 lockdowns. “The whole party went crazy spending way too much money,” one man said, referencing the state budget.
One Democrat said they weren’t particularly a fan of Walz, describing him as “a little too liberal for me.”
Health care cuts spark confusion
When asked about recent proposed cuts to taxpayer-funded health care for illegal immigrants, many respondents assumed this policy came from Trump—only to be surprised when told it was backed by Walz.
“I think that’s wrong,” one person responded before learning it was a decision from Walz. After hearing the correction, another said, “I did hear that, and that’s a matter of the budget.”
Tampons in school bathrooms
Opinions were also split on Walz’s policy to provide free menstrual products in school bathrooms — including boys’ restrooms. While some supported the initiative, others questioned its necessity and rationale. “I just don’t think that it’s necessary or normal,” one woman said, adding that they are “for women only.”
Fascism and political rhetoric
Gov. Walz has publicly called Trump a “fascist,” a label that drew both support and criticism from interviewees.
Some strongly agreed with the label, pointing to Jan. 6 and Trump’s pardons of those charged or convicted for their role in it. “That would be fascism,” one woman said. A former teacher added, “He is a fascist. I taught U.S. History and Government for 15 years.”
Others pushed back on Walz’s rhetoric. One respondent mentioned that it is not “mature of any politician to call each other names.” Another said, “I think him saying something like that of our leader is dangerous. Our job is to help our people find common ground.”
Takeaway: A divided public on Walz’s record
From budget decisions to culture war issues, Minnesotans appear to be split on Gov. Walz’s leadership. While some celebrate his progressive policies, others remain deeply skeptical of his pandemic response, fiscal management, and political tone.
As the 2026 gubernatorial election approaches, these interviews provide a snapshot of how Minnesotans are thinking about their current governor.
Symone Harms
Symone Harms is a Media Production and Business Marketing student at Bethel University. She is actively involved in The Royals Investment Fund, The 25, theatre, and other leadership positions. She also cohosts Rooted, a podcast dedicated to being rooted in truth, growing in freedom, and prospering in life. A Minnesota native with a passion for storytelling and digital media, she aspires to a career in broadcasting as a news anchor and reporter.
