Minnesota Governor Tim Walz delivered a fiery commencement address at the University of Minnesota Law School on May 18, 2025, sharply criticizing President Donald Trump for undermining the rule of law. Walz, the 2024 Democratic vice presidential nominee, described the current political climate as a “genuine emergency,” accusing Trump of acting like a tyrant who abuses power to target scapegoats and enemies. He urged graduating law students to serve as the “first and last line of defense” against such overreach, emphasizing their role in upholding constitutional protections.
Walz specifically condemned Trump’s immigration policies, including the wrongful deportation of individuals like Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia to El Salvador’s notorious Terrorism Confinement Center without due process. He also criticized Trump’s acceptance of a private jet from the Qatari royal family, calling it an ethical breach that erodes democratic norms. Walz’s speech highlighted recent judicial pushback, such as the Supreme Court’s ruling against Trump’s unconstitutional deportation efforts, underscoring the judiciary’s role in checking executive power.
The governor took aim at major law firms, labeling them “feckless” and “cowardly” for offering pro bono services to support Trump’s legal causes, which he called a betrayal of their professional oaths. He encouraged graduates to reject employment with such firms, arguing that their acquiescence enables authoritarianism. Walz acknowledged the political tone of his speech, stating, “Some would say this is too political for a commencement address, but I wouldn’t be honoring my oath if I didn’t address this head-on,” earning loud applause from the audience.
His remarks reflect broader Democratic frustration following Vice President Kamala Harris’s 2024 election loss to Trump. Walz, seen as a potential 2028 presidential candidate, has been vocal in early voting states, signaling a continued fight against Trump’s agenda. Posts on X capture mixed sentiments: some praise Walz’s bluntness, while others, like @libsoftiktok, accuse Democrats of projection, claiming they used similar tactics against Trump. Walz also dismissed calls to focus on issues like trade, where Trump polls poorly, insisting that the rule of law must remain the priority.
The speech comes amid ongoing legal battles, such as the case of Abrego Garcia, where the DOJ claimed it cannot comply with a court order to return him due to El Salvador’s refusal. Walz’s call to action resonates with those alarmed by Trump’s actions, including reported plans to use military tribunals for political opponents. As the nation grapples with these challenges, Walz’s message underscores the critical role of legal professionals in defending democracy against what he describes as a tyrannical erosion of rights, urging graduates to act decisively in this pivotal moment.
