"Dem Rep. Phillips: I Believe Walz Noticed Biden's Fitness Issues and Covered Them Up"

 On Tuesday’s episode of Fox Business Network’s “Big Money Show,” Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN) expressed frustration that 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris and 2024 vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) did not call for President Joe Biden to exit the 2024 race. He reacted to Walz’s defense of Biden’s fitness, saying, “That was disappointing because I believe anyone who had seen the President up close would share the same concerns.”

Host Brian Brenberg asked, “More than two years ago, you suggested Biden should pass the torch. The top leaders in your party did not support that stance. Does it dishearten you that they didn’t show the same courage?”

Phillips responded, “It certainly does. That’s why I took that position. As everyone knows, there’s no reward for courage in Washington. Instead, we often reward cowardice—those who stay in line and avoid raising their voices get leadership roles, fundraising opportunities, and political advancement. I wasn’t alone in my views, but I was willing to speak out publicly. I’m pleased that my party eventually made the right choice, and the results have been better than I could have imagined. It’s a positive outcome.”

Brenberg then asked, “[Y]ou’re a Minnesotan. I’m a Minnesotan. Our Governor is Tim Walz. You called for Biden to pass the torch over two years ago, yet this past summer, Walz defended Biden’s fitness for office on national television. It’s perplexing. Couldn’t he see what you saw? It seems like Tim Walz showed a lack of courage in that moment.”

Phillips replied, “I’ve known Tim for a long time. He’s my Governor and a friend, and we’ve supported each other. I even hired some of his staff when he left for Washington. But honestly, it was disappointing to hear his defense of Biden. Anyone who has observed the President up close would share the same concerns. As I mentioned earlier, Washington rewards a certain type of behavior. If you’re willing to risk your job, as I was, you can speak out and show courage. However, those with ambitions to climb the political ladder, regardless of party, often choose to conform. While many of those I respect have disappointed me on this issue, I still regard Tim Walz as an honorable man with integrity.”