Big Dad Energy

Gov. Tim Walz, The Dad we all had no idea we needed.

Why are Millenials, and Gen Zers behind Tim Walz? Because he represents our shared values and concerns, and his vision aligns with ours. In a sentence, Tim Walz is the father we did not know we needed.

We are in what is considered our prime, and we are exhausted. We are the first generation to experience lockdowns, and watch while the adults in our lives compalined more about their second ammendment rights over the lives of their children who were terrifired to go to school. Several decades later, the NRA has taken the place of common sense, and the inaction of the adults whos care we were placed under remain inactive or indifferant.

Growing up in a fundamentalist evangelical home where white supremacy reigned, masking itself as a wholesome religion, I observed and overheard these conversations at the dinner table. As an adult, I hear my parents make fun of Democrats and enjoy their freedom to own a gun. I recall going shooting with my own father and standing next to someone who was firing an automatic weapon with a bump stock; all I could think was, “This is what my kids prepare for when they are in a lockdown; this noise right here.” The concussion of that weapon caused me to feel emotions I did not know I had. The rage, the anger, the sorrow. I knew that the gun that person was shooting meant more to that person than the lives of children. I left and went into the lobby. My dad came out when he was done with his rounds. We went home, and I told him how I felt. I think his sentiments are similar to many others. He understood how I felt and would not personally own one. However, he is a card-carrying NRA member, and him personally not owning an automatic weapon is as far as his activism stretches. 

Tim Walz is the dad we need. He's the father figure who understands the struggles we face, who is willing to listen and act, and who is committed to creating a safer and more just society for all. 

America needs someone to help us return to who we are and help unite us. Gov. Tim Walz is the guy you could have a beer with after you played a game of catch. I have three children, and knowing that Gov Tim has spent time working to lower poverty for children in his state, implement free breakfast and lunches at school, and continue the fight against guns, such as advocating for common-sense gun laws and supporting mental health initiatives, shows me he cares about the future of our nation because he cares about the immediate needs of our nations children, my children and your children. 

Tim Walz is the one we need right now. We need someone who cares about the future of this nation. Who is willing to do something counter to the narrative of being selfish. We need someone not intimidated by a woman leading but encourages and promotes the leadership. We need someone who works hard to see the humanity in every human, not just those who look, worship, and sound like him. We need someone willing to take on gun lobbyists. We need someone to ensure the fuel doesn’t fall below half and that we have new wiper blades. 

Damnit, we need someone in dad shoes and an old baseball cap, a symbol of humility and relatability, to show up and reassure everyone that Dad’s here and it’ll be okay.