Democrat Tim Walz, Minnesota’s governor and former Democratic vice presidential candidate, is leading an effort by Democrats to challenge the policies of President Trump within the National Governors Association (NGA). According to a report by The Atlantic, Walz and other Democratic governors, including Laura Kelly, are threatening to withdraw from the bipartisan organization over concerns that it has not taken a stronger stance against Trump’s executive actions. This includes the Trump administration’s temporary halt of federal funding disbursements, disputes with Democratic governors over transgender athlete policies, and the deployment of the California National Guard to address anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles.
The NGA has defended its role as a bipartisan forum, emphasizing that its mission remains unchanged despite the controversy. Eric Wohlschlegel, the NGA’s communications director, stated that the organization exists to bring governors from both parties together around shared priorities. He noted that the NGA has maintained its bipartisan identity, with all but one statement this year reflecting consensus among governors. The group has also highlighted the upcoming summer meeting in Colorado Springs, which is expected to have record turnout with both Republican and Democratic leaders attending.
Despite the internal Democratic infighting, some officials have expressed support for the NGA’s continued role in fostering collaboration. Conor Cahill, a spokesperson for outgoing NGA chair Democratic Governor Jared Polis, praised the organization’s efforts to address key issues such as education reform and state authority over the National Guard. Abegail Cave, a spokesperson for incoming NGA chair Republican Governor Kevin Stitt, emphasized that the NGA is a bipartisan organization and that consensus among governors is a core part of its function.
The controversy has sparked debate about the effectiveness of bipartisan institutions in a divided political climate. Some sources have suggested that the backlash against the NGA stems from internal Democratic power struggles and the lack of consensus on how to lead the party in a divided environment. Others have pointed out that while governors may test messages for future campaigns, the NGA’s role as a nonpartisan convener remains intact. The outcome of this situation will likely shape the future of state-level governance and the ability of bipartisan groups to address national challenges amid ongoing political tensions.