Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) recently suggested Democrats form a “shadow government” in a bold attempt to counter President Donald Trump’s administration. Speaking at a Texas town hall alongside former Rep. Beto O’Rourke, Walz claimed Trump’s policies were intentionally restricting voter rights and argued Democrats need a separate platform to broadcast alternative messages.

Walz made the controversial proposal after a voter voiced concerns about election security, asking how Democrats would ensure fair midterm elections. He accused Trump of targeting women voters specifically through new voter registration measures that require proof of citizenship, labeling it as one of the administration’s earliest strategies.

The governor insisted the best solution for Democrats is to hold their own regular briefings, providing Americans with what he described as “the truth” about events taking place in Washington, D.C., each day. Walz received strong applause from those attending the event when he outlined this aggressive strategy.

In justifying the need for a separate political messaging operation, Walz criticized Democrats for previously being weak negotiators. He stated his party failed to pass key liberal bills like the John Lewis Voting Rights Act and the Employee Free Choice Act during periods when they controlled Congress. According to Walz, Democrats’ timidity in power directly contributed to their recent electoral defeats.

Republican leaders reacted strongly to Walz’s calls for a parallel administration. President Trump’s social media team mocked Walz, branding him an “unhinged loser” upset by Trump’s voter integrity policies aimed at preventing election interference by non-citizens and foreign nationals.

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) also ridiculed the suggestion, sarcastically encouraging Walz to keep making these radical statements publicly.

Walz, who unsuccessfully ran as the vice-presidential candidate with Kamala Harris against Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance in 2024, shared an anecdote from his own family that highlighted Democrats’ recent political failures. Walz’s son, Gus, reminded him bluntly of his defeat by Trump, reinforcing Walz’s belief that Democrats must start actively listening to voter frustrations.

Republicans gained control of both chambers of Congress following the 2024 elections, holding a narrow House majority of 218 seats against Democrats’ 213, and a Senate majority with 53 seats compared to Democrats’ 45, plus two independents caucusing with them.