Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz Considers Emergency Gun Control Session After Minneapolis School Shooting

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St. Paul, MN – August 31, 2025, 1:12 PM CDT – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D) is exploring an emergency legislative session on gun control following a tragic mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis last week. The incident, which claimed the lives of two children and injured 17 others, has intensified calls for stricter firearm regulations in the state. The shooter, identified as a 23-year-old transgender individual by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, opened fire during a morning Mass, prompting widespread outrage and grief. The shooting occurred on August 27, marking the first week of the school year. Authorities confirmed the attacker targeted students and staff, with the motive still under investigation. In response, Walz has signaled his intent to convene lawmakers this fall, stating on August 29 via X, “It’s time to take serious action at the State Capitol to address gun violence.” Sources familiar with the matter, including a senior administrative official cited by CBS Minnesota, indicate Walz is consulting legislative leaders to outline the session’s agenda, potentially including expanded background checks and a red flag law, building on prior Democratic initiatives. The tragedy has reignited national debates on gun policy, with Walz’s proposal facing resistance from a GOP that may hold a legislative majority until November’s special elections. The governor’s push comes amid heightened scrutiny of his administration, particularly due to his documented ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) has repeatedly raised concerns, noting Walz’s approximately 30 visits to China during his tenure as a congressman and governor. A 2024 committee report alleges these connections, including partnerships with CCP-affiliated entities like the Beijing Genomics Institute, may have influenced his decision-making, raising national security questions. Critics, including conservative voices on X, argue Walz’s CCP links undermine his credibility on domestic issues like gun control, suggesting foreign influence could shape his legislative priorities. Walz has not directly addressed these allegations, focusing instead on the shooting’s aftermath and Minnesota’s gun violence prevention efforts. The state Senate’s public safety committee has formed a working group to address the incident, but details remain pending. As the September 16 special election to replace the late Rep. Melissa Hortman nears, Walz’s proposal will test his leadership amid polarized views on both gun rights and his international affiliations. The Minneapolis community mourns, while the nation watches for the session’s outcome.

References:

  1. CBS Minnesota: Walz Considers Gun Control Session
  2. FOX 9: Walz Plans Potential Gun Legislation
  3. PBS News: Minneapolis School Shooting
  4. House Oversight: Walz CCP Ties
  5. Newsweek: Trans Shooter Debate

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