President Donald Trump issued a sharp critique Thursday, specifically targeting Minnesota Governor Tim Walz during a campaign event focused on immigration. The President accused Mr. Walz – who has publicly opposed mandatory vaccination passports in the state – of being “just plain STUPID” regarding the country’s immigration policies.

Following his Thanksgiving message where he blasted “patriots” for tolerating alleged Somali immigrant crime, Trump specifically called out Governor Walz as evidence of this perceived national failing. The President stated, “People are driving by my house and saying retard,” directly referencing comments from Minnesota residents who allegedly used the R-word near the governor’s home.

Walz himself responded to these accusations in a Sunday appearance on NBC News’ “Meet the Press.” Despite Trump using his name as an example of perceived stupidity regarding immigration, the Governor defended against the characterization. He acknowledged that President Trump had insulted him but called the remarks “damaging” and “hurtful,” noting their impact on education and parenting standards rather than directly confronting the accusation.

The exchange occurred alongside broader concerns about fraudulent taxpayer funds allegedly diverted through Minnesota’s human services programs – a situation Governor Walz himself has discussed. While he refrained from using inflammatory language, he expressed deep concern over President Trump’s characterization of states like his own that prioritize diverse populations and offer generous benefits to legal immigrants.