Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, accused Minnesota Governor Tim Walz of avoiding his military duties and misleading the public about his veteran status during a campaign rally in Detroit on Wednesday.
Vance’s comments came in response to questions from reporters. Vance criticized Walz for attempting to discredit him by focusing on his background and education. Vance defended his achievements, noting that he worked his way through college and law school, which he views as a success story in the American dream.
Vance then turned his attention to Walz’s military service, alleging that Walz avoided deployment to Iraq by dropping out of the Army just before his unit was scheduled to leave. Vance claimed this action was a betrayal of the commitment to his unit and has faced criticism from his former colleagues.
Vance also criticized Walz’s stance on gun control, questioning Walz’s claims about his military experience and implying that he is using his questionable military history to push for gun restrictions.
Additionally, Vance called for greater accountability for Walz and Vice President Kamala Harris, who has not addressed the press since President Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race.