Former President Donald Trump took aim at Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, calling him a “total lightweight” in a meandering and unfocused interview on “Fox and Friends” Thursday morning. The attack came just hours after Walz delivered his vice presidential nomination acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention.
Trump Dismisses Walz’s Leadership and Credentials
In the live phone interview, Trump criticized Walz’s tenure as governor, claiming Minnesota has faced “nothing but problems” under his leadership. “He shouldn’t have any access to possibly being president,” Trump said. “The guy has been a terrible governor. They call him coach. He is a semi-coach if he coached some football for a little while. This guy is a lightweight.”
Walz Strikes Back at Project 2025
Walz, in his DNC speech on Wednesday night, leaned into his background as a coach and criticized Trump for attempting to distance himself from Project 2025, a conservative policy blueprint that has become a focal point for Democratic attacks. “When someone takes the time to draw up a playbook, they’re going to use it,” Walz told the audience.
Trump Distances Himself from Project 2025
During the interview, Trump repeatedly distanced himself from Project 2025, a 900-page policy document created by the conservative Heritage Foundation. “Project 25, I have no idea what the hell — I don’t even want to see it. I don’t want to read it because I want to say I have no idea what it is,” Trump stated. He dismissed the project as potentially “extreme” and claimed to have no involvement with it, despite several of his advisers contributing to its development.
Trump Renews Attacks on Harris and Criticizes Minnesota’s Policies
Trump did not hold back in his criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris, labeling her a “Marxist,” “radical left lunatic,” and “comrade.” He also revisited his criticism of Minnesota’s law providing free menstrual products in public school restrooms, which he described as placing tampons “in young men’s bathrooms.”
Chicago in Trump’s Crosshairs
Throughout the interview, Trump repeatedly criticized Chicago, referring to it over a dozen times as high in crime and “corrupt.” Despite its deep-blue status, Trump claimed his campaign was making a “big play” in the city and expressed confidence that he would gain significant support there.
Trump Hints at Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Endorsement
The former president also commented on reports that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. may drop out of the presidential race and endorse him. Trump praised Kennedy as a “very smart guy” and “very good person,” suggesting that an endorsement could boost his poll numbers. “He really has his heart in the right place,” Trump said. “He is a respected person.”
Looking Ahead to Arizona
Trump is scheduled to rally in Arizona on Friday, where Kennedy is expected to suspend his campaign and appear alongside him, according to CNN.
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