Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota has faced significant backlash after criticizing President Trump regarding the cleaning of the Lincoln Memorial’s reflecting pool. Critics online quickly highlighted the fraud scandal that unfolded in Minnesota while Walz was in charge.
In a post from Friday, Walz stated, “They discovered a hypothetical problem, claimed they were the only solution, ignored expert advice, cheated millions, failed miserably, and surrounded themselves with friends who bragged about their supposed success.” This post has garnered over 3.5 million views as he summed up Trump’s presidency in a single word.
Walz’s comments were prompted by recent reports about the Trump administration’s efforts to restore the reflecting pool, which has become an issue for Democrats due to problems like peeling paint and algae, emerging just weeks after a costly restoration worth $14.8 million.
While some of Walz’s supporters appreciated his remarks, conservatives were quick to criticize him. They argued that his inability to tackle the fraud occurring under his watch compromised his stance on the reflecting pool issue.
Journalist Mark Hemingway questioned, “Is Tim Walz really accusing someone else of enabling graft?”
Fox Business correspondent Charles Gasparino also chimed in, commenting, “From the person who gave us all the ‘learning centers.'” Meanwhile, a group of over 480 Minnesota employees, frustrated about the fraud, remarked, “Tim Walz: Are You Describing Yourself?”
Others, like Sal Nuzzo, executive director of a consumer defense organization, suggested, “It might be best to leave this issue alone…”
Former Trump press secretary Harrison Fields pointed out the “very real” issues facing voters, such as inflation, border control, and energy dependence, saying, “That’s why you’re a retiring governor and a failed vice presidential candidate.”
Conservative account Gunther Eagleman derided Walz, calling him “Minnesota’s Biggest Swindler.” Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden also shared a strange anecdote about encountering a made-up military record of Walz during his 2024 vice presidential campaign.
Fox News Digital has sought comment from Walz’s office regarding the situation.
In response to concerns over the reflecting pool, Trump noted on Truth Social that “vandalism” had led to significant damage, including a large gash and chemicals unlawfully dumped. He mentioned that such actions could result in a lengthy prison sentence.
