Fox News anchor Bret Baier has sparked a heated debate by praising Governor Tim Walz (D-MN), Vice President Kamala Harris’ choice for her vice-presidential running mate. During a segment with fellow anchor Bill Hemmer, Baier described Walz as “one of those guys” who connects with rural America through his interests in hunting and fishing.
Baier’s comments have surprised many, given Walz’s reputation as a radical leftist politician. Walz is widely viewed as one of the most progressive governors in the nation, with his policies often compared to those of Harris. Baier’s remarks, which seemed to humanize Walz, have led to accusations of bias and a lack of critical analysis.
“He hunts, he ice fishes, he talks about rural America,” Baier said. “Donald Trump doesn’t understand it.”
The unexpected endorsement from a Fox News personality has drawn mixed reactions. Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) labeled the Harris-Walz ticket “the most left-wing in American history,” citing Walz’s handling of the Black Lives Matter riots in 2020. DeSantis argued that Walz’s inaction allowed Minneapolis to burn, a sentiment echoed by many conservatives.
Kellyanne Conway, a prominent Republican strategist, expressed relief at Walz’s selection, implying that it could make the Democratic ticket less formidable. Meanwhile, Fox News co-anchor Gillian Turner questioned whether Walz’s media appeal was a factor in his selection, noting his recent rise in social media popularity.
Baier’s praise has underscored the deep divisions within the media and the political landscape, highlighting the challenges of navigating an increasingly polarized environment. As the 2024 election season heats up, the Harris-Walz ticket will continue to face scrutiny from both sides of the aisle.
