Gov. Tim Walz calls Trump an “existential threat,” urging Democrats to push back harder at South Carolina convention.

Walz Fires Up Democrats at South Carolina Convention

Speaking before an energized crowd in Columbia, South Carolina, on Saturday, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued a direct call for Democrats to adopt a tougher stance against President Donald Trump. Addressing the Democratic Party state convention, Walz described Trump as a "bully" and an "existential threat," urging attendees to meet Trump’s rhetoric with equal intensity.

“Maybe it's time for us to be a little meaner, a little bit more fierce,” Walz declared, adding, “we have to ferociously push back on this.” The remarks followed criticism he had received for confronting Trump and other figures in recent months, including Elon Musk, who had exited his government advisory role.

Drawing on his background as a teacher, Walz likened Trump’s behavior to bullying. “When it's a child, you talk to them and tell them why bullying is wrong,” he said. “But when it's an adult like Donald Trump, you bully the s--t out of him back.”

Walz's comments underscored a broader theme of party resolve. He characterized Trump as a “wannabe dictator” and warned that the coming years would be “challenging” for Democrats. “We've got the guts and we need to have it to push back on the bullies and the greed,” he said.

2028 Ambitions and Party Messaging

Walz was joined on Friday night by Maryland Governor Wes Moore at a Democratic fundraiser hosted by Representative Jim Clyburn. Both events offered a platform for rising figures within the party to preview their messaging ahead of future election cycles. While Walz has not confirmed plans for a 2028 presidential bid, his appearances in early-voting states have fueled speculation.

Moore, who has ruled out a White House run in the next cycle, offered sharp criticism of Trump’s political style. “Donald Trump doesn’t need a study to dismantle democracy or use the Constitution like a suggestion box,” Moore said. He warned Democrats not to ignore the former president’s strategic impatience, calling for urgency in their own approach.

South Carolina, which played a critical role in past Democratic primaries, remains a focal point in future calendar discussions. State party chair Christale Spain reaffirmed efforts to maintain South Carolina’s lead-off position in the next nominating cycle, though the national schedule remains unsettled.

Throughout the weekend, Walz praised Democrats in South Carolina for continuing the fight in a Republican stronghold, noting that the party hasn’t won a statewide election there in two decades. “Damnit, we should be able to have some fun and be joyful,” he said. “We've got the guts.”

Although Walz has not announced a decision on seeking a third term as Minnesota’s governor in 2026, he acknowledged considering it. His remarks and appearances suggest he remains an influential voice within the party as it prepares for the battles ahead.