Ex-Vikings star Jack Brewer slams Tim Walz over deadly political shooting
Jack Brewer, who once played for the Minnesota Vikings, has launched a scathing attack on Minnesota Governor Tim Walz following the shocking assassination of a state representative. The former NFL player didn't mince words in his assessment of the state's leadership after the violent events that have rocked the community.
According to the Daily Mail, Brewer condemned Walz as a "weak, emasculated leader" in the aftermath of what authorities are describing as politically motivated killings. His comments came after State Representative Melissa Hortman was killed and State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were shot and injured in a disturbing attack that occurred early Saturday morning.
The suspect, identified as 57-year-old Vance Boelter, reportedly wore a Halloween-style mask during the attack. Boelter works as the director of security patrols at Praetorian Guard Security, according to information from the company's website.
Minnesota Becoming "Capital of Chaos" Under Walz
Brewer, who played two seasons with the Vikings after signing with the team in 2002, didn't hold back in his criticism of the current state of affairs in Minnesota. His comments specifically targeted what he perceives as a deterioration of safety and civil discourse in the state he once called home.
"Minnesota has become the capital of chaos in America. That's not right. It's not a reflection of the true people of Minnesota," Brewer told Fox in an interview that coincided with Father's Day. The former NFL player, who also played for the Golden Gophers in college, expressed particular dismay at the direction the state has taken under its current leadership.
In his emotional assessment, Brewer connected the violence to what he sees as broader social and political issues. "The root cause of all of this is evil. When you're willing to attack, ridicule, riot and protest anyone who believes something different — even in your own party — you've gone too far," he stated.
From Obama Supporter to Conservative Voice
Interestingly, Brewer's political journey has seen significant shifts over time. The former defensive back once founded an organization called "NFL Players for Obama" in 2007, showing his early support for the Democratic president.
However, Brewer later changed his political allegiance, explaining that Obama's policies in the "back half of his presidency" left "a bad taste in my mouth." This disillusionment apparently led to his political realignment. "Then I really started being awakening to what was happening with the Democratic Party - making so many promises but then abandoning the community that I worked so hard in," he explained in 2019.
Now Brewer has positioned himself as a conservative voice critical of Democratic leadership in Minnesota. His recent comments reflect this evolution, as he called for the state to focus on "restoring fatherhood" and criticized what he sees as far-left policies damaging the social fabric of Minnesota.
WNBA Coach Offers Different Perspective
While Brewer blamed liberal policies and leadership for Minnesota's troubles, others have offered contrasting views on the tragedy. Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve provided a markedly different assessment of the situation during an emotional press conference.
Fighting back tears, Reeve connected the violence to what she described as "radicalization" in American society. "It's a really difficult time, not just in our country but in the world. The radicalization that has occurred since, I think it is very clear, the timing of when our country started to turn," she stated following her team's game on Saturday.
Reeve's comments specifically highlighted concerns about inclusion and political polarization. "When inclusion became weaponized, it is a time now more than ever when we need to stand in that and inclusion is the path," she said, adding that "it has been met with a lot of resistance and that is the way of the world. It is all rooted in power - white power, no less."
Why this story matters
This story underscores the rising tension in American political life and the real-world consequences when that tension turns into violence. It raises necessary questions about public safety, civil discourse, and leadership accountability. It’s also a solemn reminder that elected officials and their families increasingly face threats simply for serving in public office.
Conclusion
An early morning shooting in Minnesota left State Representative Melissa Hortman dead and State Senator John Hoffman and his wife gravely injured. Identified assailant Vance Boelter, a private security director, is accused of staging the politically charged assault while disguised as a law enforcement officer.
The event drew emotional reactions, with Gov. Tim Walz urging unity and former NFL player Jack Brewer blasting state leadership for failing to maintain safety and civility. As community members mourn and debate the future, calls grow louder for renewed dialogue and serious attention to the growing threat of political extremism.