Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to Headline South Dakota Democratic Party Dinner in July

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has been announced as the keynote speaker for the South Dakota Democratic Party’s annual McGovern Day Dinner, scheduled for July 12 in Sioux Falls. The high-profile appearance comes as Walz continues to expand his influence beyond state lines, fueling speculation about his potential role in the 2028 presidential race.

This marks Walz’s first major public appearance in South Dakota since serving as the Democratic vice-presidential nominee in 2024 alongside Kamala Harris. Although the ticket was defeated by Donald Trump and JD Vance, Walz has since remained active on the national stage, visiting swing districts across Republican-held states including Iowa, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Nebraska.

“Governor Walz is a proven leader in Minnesota, helping to deliver free school meals, protect voting rights, cut taxes for the middle class, and expand paid leave,” the South Dakota Democratic Party said in a statement. “We’re excited to welcome him to South Dakota.”

Honoring the Legacy of George McGovern

The annual McGovern Day Dinner honors the legacy of former U.S. Senator George McGovern, a South Dakota icon who ran for president in 1972 and spent decades advocating for social justice, anti-poverty programs, and rural America.

“We’re excited to welcome Governor Walz to South Dakota,” said Shane Merrill, chair of the South Dakota Democratic Party. “I look forward to hearing his message as we honor Senator McGovern, who fought tirelessly for all South Dakotans during his time in Congress.”

Jessica Meyers, the party’s vice chair, called Walz’s presence at the dinner “an honor,” adding, “His leadership continues to show neighboring states what good governance looks like in the Midwest.”

Walz Reemerges After 2024 Campaign Loss

Since the 2024 election loss, Walz has sharpened his message and taken it directly to voters. Speaking to CNN’s Jake Tapper in March, Walz explained his motivation for launching a national town hall tour through Republican-held House districts.

“There was just a primal scream of folks recognizing what’s going on with the Trump administration—the authoritarian tendencies—and a lack of accountability from their representatives,” Walz said. “I’m going to tell them it doesn’t have to be this way.”

While Walz hasn’t officially announced any future plans, he hasn’t ruled out a 2028 presidential bid, and his recent moves—including frequent appearances on national news and visits to key early-primary states—have only added fuel to the speculation.

Bridging the Rural Divide

Raised in rural Nebraska near the South Dakota border, Walz brings a unique connection to Midwestern communities that Democrats have struggled to reach in recent years. His background in the Army National Guard, public education, and six terms in Congress have helped him craft a message grounded in rural values, economic fairness, and bipartisan leadership.

He’s positioning himself as a Democrat who can build bridges—especially with working-class voters in conservative-leaning areas.

Walz’s Viral Appeal: From the Trail to TikTok

Walz also became a viral figure last year thanks to an unconventional interview with fitness influencer Kate Mackz. Known for jogging alongside her celebrity guests, Mackz featured Walz during the 2024 campaign. The video earned over 150,000 likes on Instagram and was widely shared for its down-to-earth vibe and humanizing tone.

However, Mackz recently found herself in hot water after her follow-up interview with Republican Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt sparked a wave of backlash online. Some followers criticized her for “platforming extremism,” while others accused her of ignoring critical feedback in favor of praise.

Amid the fallout, social media users alleged that Hope Walz, daughter of the governor, had asked Mackz to unpin the viral video featuring her father—though that comment is no longer visible.

State of the State: Walz Targets Trump, Defends Minnesota Values

In his first major address since the 2024 election, Walz delivered a forceful State of the State speech, calling out former President Trump for creating what he described as “chaos” across the country and globe.

“This is a moment of great uncertainty for our nation,” Walz said. “And it’s no accident—it’s the direct result of the choices made by the president of the United States.”

He went on to highlight economic instability, rising costs, and global market volatility. “If you haven’t checked your 401(k) lately,” he quipped, “don’t do it.”

The speech drew loud applause from Democrats in the chamber, while Republicans remained mostly silent or offered polite applause. House GOP Floor Leader Harry Niska dismissed the address as an “angry rant about Donald Trump,” accusing Walz of using a “Trump deflection strategy” rather than focusing on bipartisan solutions.

Balancing National Ambitions with State Duties

While Walz’s national presence grows, his immediate priority remains at home. Minnesota’s legislative session ends May 19, and the governor is working with a closely divided Legislature to pass a balanced two-year budget. The state House is tied 67-67, and Senate Democrats hold a slim two-seat majority—making bipartisan collaboration essential.

Still, Walz expressed confidence: “Even in difficult times, we’ve shown we can come together.”

He has yet to confirm whether he’ll seek a third term as governor—something no Minnesota leader has achieved since the switch to four-year terms in 1962. That decision, Walz says, will come after the legislative session ends.

Looking Ahead

With his strong base in Minnesota, rising national visibility, and growing support from Midwestern Democrats, Tim Walz is positioning himself as a potential contender for higher office. His upcoming speech at the McGovern Day Dinner will be closely watched—not just by South Dakota Democrats, but by political observers across the country.

Ticket sales for the July 12 dinner in Sioux Falls will open in June.