During the Democratic National Convention, an emotional moment between Minnesota Governor and Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz and his family became a focal point of both praise and criticism. As Walz delivered his acceptance speech, he turned to his children, saying, “Hope, Gus, and Gwen, you are my entire world, and I love you.” The touching words brought tears to the eyes of his son, Gus, who stood up and exclaimed with pride, “That’s my dad!”
The heartfelt scene was widely celebrated on social media, with many expressing that it moved them to tears. However, it also drew a harsh response from conservative activist Laura Loomer, who used the moment to criticize Democrats. Posting on X, Loomer remarked, “At the RNC, people were mocked for crying during President Trump’s speech.
But now the Democrats want you to think it’s so wonderful how Tim Walz’s son was crying last night. No thanks. I refuse to have empathy or give kindness to the party of division, lies, and despair.” Loomer’s comments sparked immediate backlash. Her critics did not hold back in condemning her remarks, with some labeling her as “vile” and “hateful.”
One user, Kush6xi, directly confronted Loomer, accusing her of being a “psychopath” who “hates everyone you disagree with.” Another, Lorreta Faucher, responded with a scathing rebuke, writing, “Laura, your lack of empathy is no surprise, given you were clearly born as a vile, hateful spawn. We all know you weren’t loved as a child, and it shows in every venomous word you spew.”
Others highlighted the fact that Gus Walz is neurodivergent, suffering from a nonverbal learning disorder, ADHD, and an anxiety disorder. The Washington Post had previously reported on these challenges, noting the difficulties Walz and his wife faced in raising their son. A commenter named KittenDrawers criticized Loomer for targeting a child with special needs, sarcastically asking, “You going to go tip over a kid in a wheelchair later and laugh when they can’t get up?”
The backlash continued as more users condemned Loomer’s comments. Texas Trey wrote, “It’s obvious your unresolved trauma has left you unable to empathize or show kindness to anyone,” while another user, Twit for Democracy, bluntly stated, “Psychopaths have no empathy, so it’s not really an option for you.”
The incident has become another example of the divisive rhetoric that permeates political discourse today. Despite the criticism, Loomer has remained unapologetic, illustrating the deep political divides that continue to fuel heated exchanges online. For many, however, the moment between Tim Walz and his son remains a poignant reminder of the love and pride that transcends political differences.