Former President Donald Trump is facing backlash after refusing to reach out to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in the wake of a deadly shooting that left two lawmakers dead and two others injured in what authorities are calling a politically motivated assassination.
During a recent press conference, Trump was asked if he had contacted Governor Walz following the attack. His blunt response:
“Why would I call him? I could call and say, ‘Hi, how you doing?’ The guy doesn’t have a clue. He’s a mess. So I could be nice and call, but why waste time?”
The comments sparked outrage from critics who expected a show of unity and leadership during a moment of tragedy—especially since the victims were elected officials.
Vice President, Biden Reached Out—Trump Did Not
While Trump declined to make contact, Vice President JD Vance did reportedly call Governor Walz to express support and offer federal coordination. A source close to Walz said the governor appreciated the outreach and praised the cooperation between state and federal law enforcement during the manhunt.
Former President Joe Biden also reached out to Walz personally, further highlighting the contrast in tone and approach from the current and former presidents.
The Tragic Attack: What We Know
State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were fatally shot in their home on Saturday by a man impersonating a police officer. On the same evening, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were also targeted and severely injured. Both are recovering.
The suspect, 57-year-old Vance Boelter, was apprehended after a statewide manhunt. Authorities discovered what they called a chilling “manifesto” in his vehicle, which included names of multiple Minnesota lawmakers—many noted for supporting abortion rights and progressive legislation.
Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley stated,
“We believe there was intent for more violence. The list we found was chilling.”
Governor Walz labeled the attack a politically motivated assassination in a public statement, warning of rising political violence and calling for increased protections for public officials.
A History of Tension
Trump’s refusal to engage with Walz is not entirely unexpected given their longstanding political rivalry. Their clashes date back to the George Floyd protests in 2020, when Trump criticized Walz’s handling of unrest in Minneapolis.
“Letting rioters and looters destroy your city is not leadership,” Trump tweeted at the time.
Still, reports later suggested Trump privately praised Walz for his use of the National Guard.
In light of the recent violence, critics argue that Trump’s refusal to make even a symbolic call of condolence reflects a deepening of political division at a time when the country is in need of healing.
