Minnesota governor Tim Walz found himself navigating a particularly precarious gaffe when discussing school shootings—a subject that has polarized the nation for years.
Facing off against Ohio Senator JD Vance, Walz, in what many are calling a major gaffe, stumbled through a response that left viewers in shock. “I’ve become friends with school shooters,” he said, trying to explain his shift in stance on banning assault weapons.
The moderator questioned how had Walz’s position on banning assault weapons evolved over his career. But as Walz tried to convey the weight of his experiences, his words misfired.
“I sat in that office with those Sandy Hook parents. I’ve become friends with school shooters. I’ve seen it,” he said as he referenced the emotional toll of witnessing the aftermath of mass shootings.

Social media erupted, with even former President Donald Trump chiming in on his platform Truth Social. He posted a mock-up Trump-Vance 2024 campaign sign, with the pointed slogan, “Not friends with school shooters.”

The tension of the debate eased momentarily when Walz shared a personal story about his teenage son witnessing a shooting at a community center. Vance, known for his staunch conservative views, paused, offering a rare display of empathy. “I’m sorry about that. Christ have mercy,” Vance said. “I appreciate that,” Walz responded, both men briefly setting aside political differences.
While both candidates condemned the epidemic of school shootings—a rare point of agreement—their proposed solutions diverged sharply. Vance emphasized enhancing physical security measures in schools, advocating for reinforced protections. Walz, on the other hand, made a passionate case for more stringent gun control legislation.