One of Minnesota’s first gay lawmakers on Tim Walz’s politics

Both personally and as a long-time elected state senator, Dibble explained that he continues to be impressed with Walz on his LGBTQ+ record. Dibble said his support for the LGBTQ+ has been steadfast. “He’s just been rock solid, ever since he became a GSA faculty advisor in the late 1990s while a teacher,” Dibble said. “Even when it wasn’t politically advantageous or expedient to support our community, he did so. He’s never ducked for cover, hidden in the weeds.”

Dibble also pointed to Walz’s time as a congressman and as the former chair and ranking member of the House Veteran Affairs Committee. “He did amazing things for veterans, and that’s because his long time in the military gave him a unique and personal perspective. Most notably working to address veterans’ mental health and suicide. He cares deeply, and he’s always going to fight for what he believes in.:

He referred to the fact that Walz has been a strong advocate for what are often labeled as progressive issues, though they’re “fundamentally about supporting working people, because he has, again, that experience of being one of them.”

As an example, Dibble brought up the Paid Family Medical Leave initiative. “It’s a common-sense policy that enjoys broad support across party lines when polled, despite Republican opposition,” Dibble noted. “The governor has been a vocal advocate for such measures in Minnesota.”

Moreover, Dibble cited the fact that Republicans have repeatedly attacked public education, a cornerstone of Walz’s platform – because. Again, Walz’s time as a teacher allows him to intimately understand the critical nature of education and what it needs, according to Dibble.

“He rightly points out that in small towns, where he comes from, there are no private school options, making public education essential,” Dibble explained.

Dibble said that when the state had a $17 billion surplus last year, Walz prioritized restoring funding to education, including special education.

“He’s able to communicate these priorities effectively to voters, making complex issues relatable and understandable. Despite political opposition, his commitment to these issues reflects his consistent and plainspoken leadership style,” Dibble said.

What does Dibble think most Americans will learn about Walz during the coming weeks? “He really, really believes in the goodness of people because he’s seen it firsthand in the many aspects of his life.”

Dibble said that Republicans will try to make it seem that Walz has made Minnesota extreme. “That’s not who we are, or who he is, at all,” Dibble said. “He’s so much more than that.”
Original Article on The Advocate
Author: John Casey