On a recent episode of Katie Couric’s podcast, Gwen Walz, wife of Minnesota Governor and Democratic vice-presidential candidate Tim Walz, made waves with her comments on education, equity, and progressive policies.
As Couric touched on the nickname “Tampon Tim”—a label conservatives have applied to Governor Walz after he signed a bill mandating free menstrual products in all school restrooms, including those in boys’ bathrooms—Gwen Walz addressed the legislation, framing it as a necessary step toward removing barriers to learning.
According to Walz, access to basic needs, whether it’s lunch or menstrual products, is essential for academic success. “If kids are hungry in school…you’re not going to learn to read,” she explained, equating the lack of menstrual products to a fundamental obstacle that can impede students’ educational progress.
By removing these barriers, she argued, schools could focus on “the real work” of improving education outcomes rather than fixating on divisive debates.
Gwen Walz defends tampons in boys’ bathrooms, saying it supports learning.
Meanwhile, under Tim Walz, students hit record-low scores, and nearly half of MN school districts face budget shortfalls.pic.twitter.com/tLTc9UAw0T
— Dustin Grage (@GrageDustin) October 27, 2024
The legislation, which mandates menstrual products be available in grades 4 through 12, has sparked discussion, with conservatives highlighting it as an example of overly progressive policy. However, Gwen Walz and her husband view it as part of a broader mission to ensure “everyone means everyone,” explaining that different needs require tailored solutions.
“People have different needs and they have different resources, but everyone means everyone,” she stated, adding that both she and Governor Walz believe in providing for students without judgment.
Throughout the interview, Walz emphasized that her husband’s policies are about compassion, empathy, and removing obstacles to student success. In her view, Tim Walz’s approach—focused on equity, inclusivity, and basic needs—aligns with his larger mission of ensuring students are set up to thrive academically and socially.
The interview also touched on Gwen Walz’s rapport with Doug Emhoff, the second gentleman, who has been a model of support in her words. She credited Emhoff with “empowering women” and supporting his wife, Vice President Kamala Harris, noting that his encouragement has been “really miraculous.” Yet Emhoff has also faced controversies, with the Daily Mail reporting on past allegations of inappropriate behavior and a troubled first marriage.
