Fox News anchor Bret Baier has generated considerable controversy with his recent praise of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate for the 2024 election. During a discussion with fellow Fox News anchor Bill Hemmer, Baier described Walz as “one of those guys” who resonates with rural voters due to his interests in hunting and fishing.
“I mean, this guy hunts, he ice fishes. He’s one of those guys. He talks about rural America and how Donald Trump doesn’t understand it,” Baier stated, emphasizing Walz’s rural appeal.
Baier’s remarks have sparked backlash from conservative viewers and commentators who view Walz as a far-left politician. Critics argue that Baier’s comments overlooked Walz’s progressive policies and his handling of the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was quick to criticize the Harris-Walz ticket, calling it “the most left-wing in American history” and accusing Walz of allowing Minneapolis to descend into chaos during the riots.
Kellyanne Conway, a prominent Republican strategist, echoed DeSantis’s sentiments, suggesting that Walz’s selection might be a strategic misstep for the Democratic ticket. She implied that Walz’s record might alienate moderate voters.
Fox News co-anchor Gillian Turner questioned whether Walz’s media appeal and recent rise in social media popularity influenced Harris’s decision. “Walz did come to some sort of social media Internet notoriety over the last week or so. Bret, he’s given the credit for coining the term ‘weird’ to describe the Republican ticket that’s obviously taken off among the Harris crowd. You think this may be a case of the campaign choosing the shiniest object in the room?” Turner asked.
Baier defended his comments by highlighting Walz’s relatability and straightforward communication style. “He’s been on our shows. He’s not afraid to get — like JD Vance. He’s not afraid to go to different places. He’s not afraid to mix it up. He does speak in plain speak. He’s a former football coach, you know, former teacher. He has that, that appeal, that aspect,” Baier said.
The debate over Baier’s comments underscores the complex dynamics within the media and the political landscape as the 2024 election approaches. The Harris-Walz ticket will likely continue to face scrutiny from both supporters and critics, reflecting the deep divisions within American politics.
