As the election approaches, candidates are feeling the pressure, particularly in important swing states like Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. During a campaign event in Detroit, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz made headlines by referring to Elon Musk as a “gay guy” while discussing the influence of billionaires in politics.
Walz’s Remarks Ignite Backlash
Tim Walz’s comment sparked a significant reaction on social media. While discussing the role of wealthy individuals in elections, he said, “That guy, that gay guy,” and laughed, adding, “Michigan knows that word.” His remarks coincided with a rally in Milwaukee hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris, highlighting the high stakes of the political landscape.
WHY did Tim Walz just call Elon Musk “that gay guy” ❓ pic.twitter.com/OO195PFdsK
— Culture War (@CultureWar2020) November 1, 2024
In his campaign tour through Michigan, which is crucial for Democrats, Walz connected with local Black leaders, encouraged union supporters in Detroit, and energized crowds in Flint. He also took the opportunity to criticize his Republican opponent, Donald Trump, and his ties to Musk. Walz mocked Trump’s proposal for tariffs aimed at boosting U.S. manufacturing, questioning Trump’s understanding of tariffs given his age. “You would have thought in his nearly 80 years on the planet, he could have learned what a damn tariff was and how it worked,” he said.
Musk Responds to the Controversy
Elon Musk quickly addressed Walz’s comment, stating, “I have no problem being called gay, to be honest,” on X (formerly Twitter). His response led to further outrage among Trump and Musk supporters, who criticized Walz for his choice of words. One user remarked, “The weird gay guy calling other people weird and gay is… interesting.” Another questioned Walz’s motives, saying, “Why does he think it’s such a problem? Does he have something to hide?”
Commenters expressed varying opinions, with one pointing out the irony of Walz’s jab given Musk’s numerous biological children. Others condemned Walz for using “gay” as a slur rather than in a legitimate context, asking, “Where’s the outrage from liberals? I thought people couldn’t use the word ‘gay’ as a joke anymore.”
Campaigns Continue Amid Controversy
The Harris-Walz campaign has not yet issued a statement regarding the backlash. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris is hosting a star-studded campaign rally in Milwaukee, featuring artists such as Cardi B and Glorilla. Former President Donald Trump is also scheduled to return to Milwaukee, where the Republican National Convention was previously held, underscoring the competitive nature of the current election cycle.
