Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz highlighted his rural roots and love of outdoor sports by participating in Minnesota’s pheasant hunting season opening. Despite not bagging any pheasants, the campaign saw this as an opportunity to showcase Walz’s passion for outdoor activities. The governor was joined by Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, and while they did not succeed in hunting any birds, six birds were harvested among other hunting parties that participated in the event. The campaign also announced the launch of Hunters and Anglers for Harris-Walz, an organizing program to engage sportspeople, conservationists, and rural voters.
The campaign of Vice President Kamala Harris has been addressing the issue of whether some men are reluctant to vote for her because she is a woman. Key supporters are making direct appeals to male voters to overcome sexism and apathy as Election Day approaches. Harris revealed during a debate with former President Donald Trump that she is a gun owner. The Trump campaign mocked Walz’s hunting outing, accusing him of trying to gain ground with male voters. They falsely claimed there were no guns in sight during the hunt, calling it a sign of the future under a potential Harris-Walz administration.
A video clip tweeted by the Trump campaign did not show any guns during Walz’s hunting outing, but it was recorded before the group had donned their blaze orange safety vests and hats. They eventually headed into the field with their shotguns raised to ensure safety. Walz, who previously had a top rating from the National Rifle Association, changed his stance on gun issues after multiple school shootings. As governor, he signed legislation expanding background checks for gun transfers and implementing a red flag law. The Trump campaign criticized Walz for his gun control advocacy.
The Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener has been a tradition since 2011, rotating through host communities in the pheasant country of southern and western Minnesota. Walz participated in the hunting event after attending a football game in Mankato, where he previously worked as an assistant coach. The event serves as a way to celebrate outdoor sports and engage with rural communities. The campaign’s efforts to reach out to sportspeople, conservationists, and male voters reflect its commitment to connecting with a wide range of constituents in the lead-up to the election.
