Tim Walz receives backlash for changing stance on prosecutor Joe Thompson’s resignation

Walz Criticized for Reaction to Resignation of Prosecutor

Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota is facing backlash on social media following his comments about the resignation of the state’s chief fraud prosecutor, Joe Thompson. Just a week prior, Walz had indicated that he should be dismissed.

In a statement on social media, Walz described Thompson as a diligent public servant who has worked for over a decade to seek justice for the residents of Minnesota. This followed the announcement of Thompson’s resignation and reports suggesting it stemmed from disagreements with President Trump’s Justice Department. “This is a huge loss for our state. It also signals that President Trump aims to clear out nonpartisan professionals from the DOJ and replace them with loyalists,” Walz stated.

The comments prompted confusion among many, as Walz had recently accused Thompson of defamation and suggested that he would have been fired in another administration. “You saw a U.S. attorney stand up and be released, but he was speculating about things he didn’t have factual information about,” Walz remarked, emphasizing the severe implications of the fraud issue in Minnesota, which could involve up to $9 billion.

Critics quickly pointed out the inconsistency in Walz’s statements. Bill Grahn, a policy researcher, reminded him on social media that he had advocated for Thompson’s firing only days before. Others, including Minnesota State Representative Walter Hudson, noted the stark difference in tone between Walz’s earlier remarks and his recent expressions of loss over Thompson’s departure.

Thompson had previously been instrumental in tackling a significant $250 million food fraud case affecting the state’s Somali community, which has led to numerous indictments and broader scrutiny of fraudulent activities within Minnesota. The ongoing issues may have influenced Walz’s decision not to campaign for a third term amid rising challenges.