‘I will admit when I make a mistake’: Walz Addresses Errors and Abortion Discussion in Fox News Interview
Tim Walz, the Democratic Vice Presidential candidate, defended his time as Minnesota’s governor during a significant television interview on Sunday. He covered various topics, including U.S. policy in the Middle East and some of his past errors and gaffes.
This was Walz’s first appearance on a Sunday morning political program since becoming a VP candidate, as he had largely steered clear of major national media interviews recently.
The governor took the opportunity to turn many inquiries about his record into critiques of former President Donald Trump, condemning Trump on matters ranging from abortion rights to his economic management.
Nonetheless, Walz faced repeated inquiries about his own actions in Minnesota. He was pressed on a state abortion law he signed and the extent to which it permits abortions late in pregnancy. Walz stated that the Minnesota law “empowers a woman and her health care doctors to make the decision.”
Some Republican legislators and candidates nationwide have claimed that Democrats desire unrestricted access to abortions throughout pregnancy, even shortly before delivery.
However, late-term abortions are already uncommon, typically performed due to severe fetal conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 93% of abortions took place at or before 13 weeks of pregnancy in 2019, with just about 1% occurring at 21 weeks or later.
Walz accused Trump of advocating for a nationwide abortion ban, despite Trump’s insistence that he would not try to obstruct access to abortion on a national level. When asked if he believed Trump was lying, Walz responded, “yes, of course.”
Walz, along with Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, has been selective about media engagements recently. However, they are increasing their appearances as the campaign enters its final weeks.
Harris has participated in interviews with the CBS program “60 Minutes” and has other interviews lined up with unconventional platforms like the “Call Her Daddy” podcast.
Yet, during his debut on a Sunday talk show, Walz did not directly respond to all inquiries. When asked about his thoughts on whether Israel should carry out a preemptive strike on Iranian nuclear or oil facilities, Walz remained ambiguous, stating, “Specific actions will be handled as the situation evolves.”
The governor was also questioned about various occasions where he has misrepresented details of his life, including his military background, travels to China, and fertility challenges.
In response to whether people can trust him, Walz asserted, “I will acknowledge my mistakes and take responsibility for my words” before directing criticism toward Vance, emphasizing that he failed to recognize Trump’s loss in the 2020 election during their debate.
“I think that’s what they’re probably more worried about,” Walz added.
