Walz Defends Military Service

Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz defended his military service amid Republican attacks, particularly from his rival Sen. JD Vance of Ohio. Walz, the governor of Minnesota, expressed pride in his 24-year National Guard service during a campaign event in Los Angeles. The controversy arose from a 2018 video where Walz appeared to misstate his combat experience, which his campaign clarified as a misspeak. Walz addressed the criticism directly, emphasizing his commitment to service and refusing to denigrate others' military records. He explained his enlistment was inspired by his father's Army service and occurred when he was 17. The debate over Walz's military background has become a focal point in the campaign, with Republicans accusing him of misrepresentation, while Walz maintains pride in his service and continues his campaign activities separate from running mate Kamala Harris.