Minnesota Governor Tim Walz addressed a gathering of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), emphasizing his commitment to supporting firefighters and their families. In his speech, Walz highlighted his background as a teacher and his bipartisan record during his eight years in Congress, where he served as the ranking member on the Veterans Affairs Committee.

Walz, who was elected governor in 2018 and reelected in 2022, has been a strong advocate for firefighter welfare, notably securing the Public Safety Officers' Benefits (PSOB) for firefighters affected by occupational cancer and providing mental health support for those dealing with PTSD. He also signed legislation that enhances firefighter staffing rights, ensuring that their voices are heard in staffing decisions.

During his address, Walz paid tribute to fallen firefighters, sharing a personal story about Chris Parsons, a St. Paul fire captain who died in the line of duty. He expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by firefighters and reiterated his administration's commitment to bolstering resources for training, equipment, and overall firefighter well-being.

Walz also spoke about his partnership with Vice President Kamala Harris, highlighting her understanding of the challenges faced by firefighters, particularly in relation to wildfires in California. He praised her efforts in securing financial support for public workers and emphasized the importance of ensuring that firefighters have the necessary resources and protections to perform their duties safely.

In closing, Walz reaffirmed his dedication to advocating for the labor movement and the essential roles that firefighters and other public service workers play in building and maintaining the middle class in America.