Minnesota Governor Tim Walz used his State of the State address Wednesday night to tout what feels are the state's accomplishments under the DFL-controlled House and Senate while criticizing policies in states led by Republicans.
Walz told members of the House and Senate that the "era of gridlock" was over.
"For four years, despite enormous headwinds and complicated politics, we did get a lot of good things done for the people of Minnesota," Walz said. "Now we have a new mandate for action. A chance to set aside the old fights in favor of doing something truly historic for our children and our grandchildren. This is a moment we have building towards for a long time and we will not let it go to waste."
Walz pointed to the work that kicked off the 2023 session including legislation providing $100 million in tax cuts to Minnesota individuals and businesses. He also spoke of the new standard set for carbon-free electricity by 2040 and legislation ensuring free breakfast and lunch for all students in school.
"Three months into a second term, I'm proud to report the state of our state is strong and it's getting stronger with every investment we make in our people and the futures their working so hard to build," added Walz.
Walz said policies prioritized in Minnesota are what sets the state apart from others, including those led by Repbulicans.
"Politicians want to be seen as fighters. What they don't seem to understand is it's not enough to be a fighter. You got to choose the right fights," he said. "It's amazing what you can accomplish when you stop complaining about corporations going 'woke' and start giving a damn about real people and real lives."
Minnesota Republicans gave their reaction following Walz's address Wednesday night.
Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson said the governor's national focus isn't something he expected to hear.
"What we saw was a national campaign speech out there ignoring the needs of Minnesotans across the state," Johnson said. "The theme is this is broken promises."
Johnson said Walz and DFL lawmakers haven't lived up to their campaign promises when it comes to tax cuts, crime, and education. He and House Minority Leader Lisa Demuth criticized lawmakers for their increased spending and not doing more to drive down costs.
"With a record budget surplus of $17.5 billion, returning that to Minnesotans, reducing government, and the costs is what Minnesota residents are looking for," Demuth said.
Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman applauded Walz's vision for the state.
“We are aligned with Governor Walz and his inspirational vision to build a stronger state, reduce child poverty, and make Minnesota the best state in the nation for children and families. We’ve accomplished so much together already this session, with more good work still to come."
