Minnesota Governor Tim Walz recently participated in the state’s pheasant hunting season opener. Armed with his Beretta shotgun, Walz spent three hours trekking through tall grass, but unfortunately, he didn’t get a chance to fire a single shot.
A Challenging Day of Hunting
Goes remained optimistic despite the harrowing day, saying, “There are good days and great days pheasant hunting.” His friend, Scott Rall, shot the only bird of the day. However, the thick brush made retrieving the bird difficult for the group, as the grass was often taller than the hunters.
The pheasants seemed uncooperative, with many flying back toward the press following the group. At one point, joked about the 2006 hunting accident involving former Vice President Dick Cheney, when Cheney accidentally shot a fellow hunter.
A Governor’s Outdoor Adventure
Wearing Carhartt hunting chaps and an orange vest to commemorate the annual season opener, Walz took part in the hunt in his official capacity. Following the hunt, he attended a campaign event, tying the outdoor activity to his recent efforts to connect with hunters, anglers, and gun owners.
Recently, Walz announced a new voting coalition to support traditional outdoor activities. This initiative is part of his broader political strategy to appeal to rural voters and those who enjoy outdoor sports.
Walz and His Gun
Both Governor Walz and Vice President Kamala Harris have highlighted gun ownership as part of their identities, even while advocating for stricter gun laws like universal background checks. Walz carried a Beretta A400 shotgun and explained that its special features reduce recoil, making it easier to shoot as you age.
While taking a break, Walz enjoyed locally sourced venison and a Diet Mountain Dew and humorously mentioned the hunting dogs. One of the dogs, Sarge, had worked tirelessly, and Walz joked, “Sarge is saying, ‘I worked for two hours, and these guys couldn’t shoot one bird.'”
Connecting with Rural Voters
Governor Walz, who grew up in rural Nebraska, has been focusing his campaign on connecting with rural and male voters. In previous campaigns, he was mentioned as one of the best shots when he was in Congress. Recalling past hunting trips with fellow lawmakers, Walz shared, “I used to love that congressional shoot.”
Walz’s participation in the pheasant hunting season highlights his efforts to appeal to voters who enjoy outdoor traditions while balancing his stance on gun control. The event showcased his skills as a hunter and reflected his commitment to connecting with rural communities across Minnesota.
