Minnesota Governor Tim Walz visited Iowa on Friday, urging fellow Democrats to listen to the growing frustration from Americans and take stronger action against President Donald Trump’s policies. Speaking at a town hall in Des Moines, Walz described public anger as a “primal scream” that leaders must not ignore.
"Democratic officials should hear the primal scream coming from America," Walz said. "'Do something, this is wrong!'"
Large Crowd Gathers in Iowa
More than 1,500 people signed up to attend the town hall at Roosevelt High School, located in Iowa’s 3rd Congressional District. Walz said the event was part of a tour across swing districts where Republicans have been avoiding public town halls.
"A town hall isn’t just a performance," Walz told attendees. "It’s a way for people to talk directly to their government."
GOP Leaders Avoid Public Forums
National Republican leaders have advised their members to skip traditional town halls due to growing public protests. Iowa Rep. Zach Nunn, who represents the 3rd District, has not committed to holding one this year, although his office said he’s been holding listening sessions in all 21 counties.
"Iowans voted for change, and I’m delivering," Nunn said in a statement, listing policies like securing the border and cutting taxes.
Democrats Plan More “People’s Town Halls”
National Democrats say they will continue holding town halls in districts across the country, including Iowa’s 3rd, to make sure voters are heard. They see these events as part of their strategy for the upcoming 2026 midterms.
“Fight Back,” Crowd Tells Walz
During the town hall, Walz encouraged people to speak up. Several shouted messages like “fight back” and “be more aggressive.” He said he agreed with their urgency and believes Democrats need to act with more speed and focus.
"We need to move faster to impact people’s lives," he said. "And we need to learn from how quickly Republicans have pushed their agenda."
Calls for Stronger Democratic Messaging
Democrats have struggled to present a strong, united message against Trump’s rapid policy moves. Some have criticized symbolic gestures as not being enough. Recently, a few Democrats joined Republicans to pass a budget fix, frustrating others in the party.
Walz said listening to voters is more important than ever. “This energy is growing, even among independents,” he said. “It’s an opportunity for us to connect and show people why their vote matters.”
Walz Dismisses Talk of Presidential Run
Although some have speculated about his future, Walz said he is not testing the waters for a 2028 presidential campaign. He pointed to a recent trip to Montana as proof he’s focused on outreach, not campaigning.
"I’ve been given a megaphone," he said. "And I’m trying to hand it to the people who feel like they’re not being heard."
Debate Over Iowa’s Role in Elections
Walz also talked about the Democratic Party’s decision to remove Iowa from its first-in-the-nation status for presidential primaries. While he didn’t call it a mistake, he said Democrats need to respect voters in all states.
“Iowa is diverse,” he said. “And we need to show up and compete everywhere if we want people to vote for us.”
Republicans Push Back Against Walz Visit
Republicans criticized Walz’s Iowa stop, calling it a distraction. Rep. Randy Feenstra said Walz was in Iowa only to spread criticism of Republican policies. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds also posted a message saying Walz could learn from Iowa’s leadership and praised low taxes and common-sense policies.
The National Republican Congressional Committee said the event was “a manufactured production” meant to distract from Democratic struggles. A spokesperson used a nickname to mock Walz and questioned his party’s strategy.
Democrats Say the Message Is Clear
Despite the criticism, Walz said his goal is to let people speak. He believes that listening to voters and responding with real action is the best way to earn their trust.
“The road to losing democracy is paved by people saying you’re overreacting,” Walz told the audience. “You’re not. You’re right to demand more.”
Keywords: Tim Walz Iowa town hall, Democrats 2026 midterms, Democratic strategy, public town halls, Trump opposition, voter engagement, swing districts