, Columnist
‘Tampon Tim’ Walz Is a Weird Meme Behind a Real Problem
Many girls can’t afford menstrual products. And too many Republicans are committed to keeping it that way.
Making puberty less awkward.
Photographer: Andrew Harnik/Getty ImagesWithin hours of Vice President Kamala Harris announcing her running mate, certain corners of the internet had exploded with “Tampon Tim” memes, a reference to a bill that Tim Walz signed ensuring free period products in Minnesota public schools.
Republicans gleefully used the policy to take yet another jab at trans kids. The object of their ire? The bill’s inclusive language, which requires period products to be available “to all menstruating students in restrooms regularly used by students in grades 4 to 12 according to a plan developed by the school.”