ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Governor Tim Walz delivered a forceful State of the State address on Wednesday night, pledging to shield Minnesotans from what he described as the ongoing chaos unleashed by President Donald Trump.
Speaking to a joint session of the Minnesota Legislature, Walz acknowledged the state’s strength and resilience but warned that the nation faces a “moment of great uncertainty” — a crisis he directly attributed to Trump’s leadership.
“The president of the United States has chosen – chosen – to throw our economy into turmoil,” Walz declared.
“Global markets are teetering on the brink of collapse. Businesses across the country and right here in Minnesota are laying off thousands. Working families are paying more for basic goods. And if you haven’t checked your 401(k) lately — don’t.”
This marked Walz’s first major address to a statewide audience since the 2024 election, when he ran alongside Vice President Kamala Harris and lost to Donald Trump and running mate JD Vance. Throughout the evening, Walz received enthusiastic standing ovations from Democrats, while Republicans responded with restrained applause.
Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Minnesota, Walz said,
“As your governor, I will continue to do everything in my power to protect Minnesotans and provide shelter from the storm.”
Though he has yet to announce whether he’ll seek a historic third term — something no Minnesota governor has achieved since gubernatorial terms were extended to four years in 1962 — Walz remains a visible national figure. His frequent appearances on cable news and recent visit to Iowa, where he launched a series of town halls in Republican-held districts, have fueled speculation about a potential 2028 presidential run.
Still, Walz’s immediate priority is working with Minnesota’s closely divided Legislature to pass a balanced two-year budget before the May 19 adjournment. With the House evenly split 67-67 and Senate Democrats holding just a two-seat edge, bipartisan cooperation will be essential.
He emphasized Minnesota’s history of pragmatic governance, saying,
“Regardless of what’s happening in Washington, Republicans and Democrats here in Minnesota have proven we can come together.”
Walz also raised alarms about proposed Medicaid cuts being considered in Washington, warning that if they move forward, the state may need a special session later this year to address potential budget shortfalls.
But the governor’s message went beyond criticism. He urged lawmakers to take action and demonstrate that effective governance is still possible.
“It’s not enough to condemn the dysfunction in Washington,” he said.
“This administration — these small, petty men — they won’t last. They’ll fade into the dustbin of history. And when they do, we must be ready. Ready to rebuild a government that works — truly works — for working people.”
Legislative leaders, including Republican House Speaker Lisa Demuth, were expected to respond to Walz’s remarks later in the evening.
