Speculation ignited Monday night after a video shared on social media purportedly showed multiple black SUVs leaving the home of vice presidential hopeful and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. However, the rumors were swiftly debunked.
Around 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday, Dan Green posted on the social media platform X, reporting that he was near Walz’s home and observed a “bunch of black SUVs just rolled out.” “I am not a betting man but the vibe seemed very ‘this guy just got picked as VP,'” Green wrote. “Feel free to interpret how you wish!” He later added that he had “no idea what’s going on” and admitted he had only parked there for five to ten minutes.
The tweet quickly sparked interest among social media users, particularly given a similar scene that occurred with Ohio Senator J.D. Vance. Vance was seen leaving his Cincinnati home in a motorcade before being named former President Donald Trump’s running mate. In that instance, a local Fox television station reported that the extra security outside Vance’s home was approved by Governor Mike DeWine, the ATF, and the State Highway Patrol.
The post about a motorcade at Walz’s home led to various reactions online. Some users declared, “This will ensure a landslide defeat,” while others proclaimed that Walz would be “a monster good pick.” Some pointed out that Walz had a fundraiser planned for Monday night, while others tried to debunk the claims, noting that the vehicles had state plates and were likely used for in-state purposes.
As rumors swirled, a spokesperson for Walz addressed the speculation, providing clarification to Washington Post reporter Tyler Pager. The spokesperson confirmed that the SUVs were part of Walz’s Minnesota detail and belonged to the state Department of Public Safety.
“Governor Walz has been driven by the Minnesota State Patrol’s executive protection team since he’s been in office,” the spokesperson stated. The clarification from Walz’s office effectively quashed the internet rumors, emphasizing that the vehicles were part of his regular security detail rather than a sign of a vice presidential selection.