In 2018, Tim Waltz expressed admiration for an extreme Muslim leader named Assad Zaman, who has a history of incendiary actions against media figures like Glenn Beck, whom he describes as “despicable.”
Waltz, in a video, stated, “First of all, I want to thank Imam. I’m a teacher myself. Meeting a master teacher changes your perspective.” He added that during their time together, he was able to see life through a different lens, gaining valuable insights.
Waltz’s campaign had previously denied any close relationship with Zaman, asserting that Waltz condemns Hamas terrorism. Yet, Beck remains skeptical. He questions, “Why are they trying to distance him from Zaman?” pointing out Zaman’s ties to a Hamas press release and a controversial film.
Furthermore, after the October 7th attack on Israel, Zaman and his group expressed solidarity with Palestinians on Facebook, which Beck mentions as problematic. Zaman serves as the executive director for the Minnesota chapter of the Muslim American Society, which, according to federal prosecutors in 2008, was associated with the American Muslim Brotherhood.
Additionally, in 2014, the United Arab Emirates designated the Muslim American Society as a terrorist organization. Beck, feigning shock, quips about the contradiction of Zaman being labeled a great teacher while leading a purportedly terrorist group. A spokesman for Waltz’s campaign reiterated that Waltz has no connection to Zaman.
Nonetheless, Beck points out that Waltz has attended multiple events with Zaman, which raises questions about their supposed disconnection. “How does Glenn Beck say that,” he jokes.
