The choice of Tim Walz as the Democratic vice presidential candidate has ignited debates regarding his long history with China.
According to the New York Post, Questions concerning his security clearance and compliance with regulatory reporting have surfaced, prompted by historical engagements, including significant teaching stints at a Chinese state-run university.
Walz, who served in the Minnesota Army National Guard, received criticism for his extensive travels to China, which included over 30 trips since 1989, the year of the Tiananmen Square massacre.
The narrative of Tim Walz's connection with China traces back to his teaching tenure at Macau Polytechnic University, a state-run institution aligning with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, where he taught international relations until 2007.
Familiar with Chinese culture, Walz's engagement isn't confined to academia. Alongside his wife, he organized educational journeys to China for U.S. students, leveraging their experiences to build bridges through a for-profit venture. Despite ensuring cultural exchanges, these activities have drawn scrutiny from U.S. Congressman Jim Banks, who recently requested a Pentagon review of Walz's travels.
Banks articulated concerns about the vice presidential candidate, suggesting that Walz's extensive travels posed "an obvious security risk." This skepticism extends to inquiries regarding Walz's adherence to foreign travel reporting law mandates, crucial for maintaining his security clearance while a senior Army National Guard member.
Meanwhile, Derek Scissors, a noted analyst, echoed these concerns, asking about the level and status of Walz's security clearance during these periods.
Walz's legislative actions include co-sponsoring the 2017 Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, suggesting his continued advocacy for democratic values internationally. Ties with China are also personal for Walz. He and his wife spent their honeymoon there, returning several times, enriching their personal and professional lives through extended exposure to Chinese culture and policy.
Reflecting on his first visit during a 2014 Congressional panel on China, Walz shared vivid memories. Marcus Im Sio Kei from Macau Polytechnic University defended their institutional mission and their alignment with governmental initiatives, stressing the commitment to cultivating talented individuals serving both the country and Macau.
Tim Walz once reflected upon his teaching experiences in China:
"No matter how long I live, I will never be treated that well again. The toughest part was learning to tell them apart and memorizing their names."
Such remarks underscore the depth of his engagement and the personal impact of his time in China.
Gwen Walz reminisced about their honeymoon planning in 1994, noting that Tim Walz wanted it to be memorable, which led them to choose China. As scrutiny intensifies, these revelations could shape voter perceptions as Walz contends with both his record and his role in a fraught geopolitical arena.
In conclusion, the detailed examination of Tim Walz's connections and activities in China highlights multiple facets of his career and personal life, from educational initiatives and cultural exchanges to legislative actions and compliance with security protocols. As Walz steps into a more prominent political role, the breadth and depth of his international experiences continue to elicit both condemnation and commendation.
