, Guest Columnist
Gus Walz Is Not Your Inspiration Porn
MAGA Republicans’ comments about Gov. Tim Walz’s son were clearly vile. Democrats’ responses were hurtful in a more subtle way.
A son who loves his dad.
Photographer: Charly Triballeau/AFP/Getty Images
As the mom of a child with autism and ADHD, watching Gus Walz, son of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, mouth “That’s my dad!” during his father’s speech at the Democratic National Convention filled me with emotion.
With a tear-streaked face, the 17-year-old, who has ADHD and a non-verbal learning disorder, beamed with pride and adoration for the man who raised him. His reaction was completely devoid of any trace of the self-conscious, camera-ready expressions we are used to seeing from politicians’ families.