Before rising to political prominence, Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota and now a vice presidential candidate, faced a significant crossroads in his life following a drunk-driving incident nearly ten years ago.
Dawes County Sheriff’s Office
While teaching in Alliance, Nebraska, Walz was pulled over for speeding—traveling 96 mph in a 55 mph zone. The Dawes County Sheriff’s Office report noted a strong scent of alcohol, and Walz subsequently failed a sobriety test, recording a blood alcohol level of 0.128.
Initially charged with DUI and speeding, he eventually reached a plea deal that lowered the charges to reckless driving. During hearings, it was revealed that Walz had contemplated resigning from his teaching position and coaching role following the incident.
Ultimately, Walz pled guilty to the lesser charge, leading to a $200 fine and court costs, while the DUI charge was dropped. A 90-day license suspension also followed.
Over the years, Walz has been open about this pivotal moment, viewing it as a lesson in personal accountability. “It was a serious mistake, but it taught me valuable lessons about responsibility and consequences,” he reflected during his 2018 gubernatorial campaign.
This incident was also the catalyst that led him to quit drinking, a commitment he’s upheld for nearly 30 years. Now, he opts for Diet Mountain Dew, a drink choice he interestingly shares with his Republican opponent, Ohio Senator JD Vance.
KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI/AFP via Getty Images
In a strategic move this week, Kamala Harris announced Walz as her running mate, aiming to strengthen her position against former President Donald Trump. Walz was notably the first Democrat to call Trump and Vance “weird,” a narrative that has resonated within the Democratic campaign.
Now in his second term as governor, the 60-year-old Walz is recognized for his progressive initiatives while still appealing to voters in conservative areas. His diverse background—including experience as a public school teacher, high school football coach, and his time on Capitol Hill—positions him as a key player in the upcoming national campaign.
Harris’s selection of Walz suggests an intent to regain traction in both the Rust and Sun Belt states that slipped away during Joe Biden’s presidential campaign.