Republican Military Veteran Lawmakers Pen Letter Condemning Walz
The governor of Minnesota has dedicated 24 years of service to the Army National Guard.
The letter, which PMG viewed, includes signatures from both hardline Trump supporters and moderate Republicans from contested districts. It counters a prior defense of Walz by 18 Democratic veteran members of Congress.
Governor Walz, who has 24 years of service in the Army National Guard, faced scrutiny after being selected as Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate due to alleged discrepancies in his military record.
“You have stated that you are ‘damn proud’ of your service, and like any American veteran, you should be,” the Republican members of Congress wrote, on a document with Trump-Vance campaign letterhead. “But there is no honor in lying about the nature of your service.”
The letter features signatures from senators like Joni Ernst, Roger Marshall, Rick Scott, and Roger Wicker, and prominent House members such as Rep. Brian Mast, who is a noted figure due to injuries sustained in Afghanistan.
The group of signatories covers a broad range from Rep. Don Bacon to Rep. Ryan Zinke, encompassing several other members.
“You have violated the trust of our brothers and sisters in arms,” the Congress members wrote. “Their blood, sweat, and sacrifice are the only reason our nation is able to exist. Until you admit you lied to them, there is no way you can be trusted to serve as Vice President.”
Walz’s spokesperson responded by highlighting recent endorsements from Democratic Congress members who described him as a “steadfast advocate for veterans and military families,” and a letter signed by 1,000 military veterans supporting him.
During his campaign, the Harris team originally described Walz as a “retired Command Sergeant Major,” though he retired as a master sergeant. They later corrected his online biography.
Walz was also criticized in 2018 for implying he served in a combat zone when speaking against gun violence. A campaign spokesperson clarified that he had “misspoke” during those comments.
Accusations have been made by Trump supporters against Walz for allegedly leaving the National Guard just before deployment to focus on his political career, though the timing shows Walz announced his campaign earlier.
The debate over Walz’s service record repeats from his 2018 gubernatorial campaign, during which he was criticized for allegedly misrepresenting his rank.
Trump has similarly faced scrutiny over his recent comments comparing the Presidential Medal of Freedom to the Congressional Medal of Honor, which drew sharp rebuke from veterans’ groups.
Senator JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, has consistently attacked Walz for his military service statements, accusing him of "stolen valor."
Walz has staunchly defended his record, emphasizing his pride in his service and expressing gratitude towards all who serve.
Sanya Singh for TROIB News