During a Fox News town hall in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump openly criticized Minnesota Governor and Democratic Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz. Trump described Walz as "weird" and questioned his character. His remarks came as he defended his running mate, J.D. Vance, against similar attacks.

Mail Online reported that Trump's criticism of Walz coincided with public support from several of the governor's estranged family members, who endorsed Trump.

Trump made his statements during a live event hosted by Sean Hannity. He emphasized his confidence in Vance and drew a stark contrast between his running mate and Walz. Trump stated that Vance was “not weird” and described both himself and Vance as "solid rock" figures, reinforcing his team's stability.

Walz's Family Shows Support For Trump

On the same day as the town hall, multiple members of Tim Walz’s extended family publicly endorsed Donald Trump. A photograph circulated showing eight of Walz’s relatives, all wearing "Walz’s for Trump" t-shirts. The family members were identified as relatives of Walz through his grandfather's brother.

Charles W. Herbster, a former GOP gubernatorial candidate in Nebraska, shared the image online. Herbster’s caption suggested that Walz’s family was sending a message by supporting Trump. A representative for Herbster clarified that those in the photo were connected to Walz through his grandfather’s side of the family.

Jeff Walz Criticizes His Brother

Tim Walz’s older brother, Jeff Walz, was among the family members endorsing Trump. Jeff, who is estranged from the Democratic nominee, posted a statement on Facebook criticizing his brother’s policies and character. He clarified that his post was not intended to sway public opinion but was directed at his friends.

"I was getting a lot of feedback from my friends, old acquaintances, thinking that I was feeling the same way that my brother did on the issues," Jeff Walz explained. He noted that his goal was to clarify his political stance privately, though his comments quickly became public.

Jeff also admitted hesitating about making such statements publicly, indicating he had thought long and hard about it. Despite this, he firmly disagreed with his brother’s political ideology, describing him as "not the type of character you want making decisions about your future."

Trump Responds To Family Endorsement

Trump drew energy from Walz's family's support, proudly mentioning the endorsement during the town hall. "I was so honored today," he said, adding, "Honestly, it was a very nice-looking family."

He also revealed plans to meet Jeff Walz in Freeport, Florida, highlighting the personal nature of the endorsement and emphasizing that even Walz's family did not agree with his political stance.

Hannity Moderates Town Hall As Debate Falls Through

Trump held the town hall in Harrisburg after Harris’s campaign team declined a Fox News debate proposal, opting instead for an ABC News debate in Philadelphia on September 10.

Despite this, Trump proceeded with the town hall, using it to criticize his opponent and attack the Democratic ticket. He emphasized his belief that Walz was unfit for the vice presidency, citing his unusual demeanor.

Trump Defends His Running Mate

Trump criticized Walz during the town hall but also defended his running mate, J.D. Vance, calling him "solid" and reliable. "J.D. is not weird; he's a solid rock," Trump remarked, boosting confidence in his VP pick.

Following similar criticisms aimed at Vance, Trump framed the Republican ticket as stable and dependable, contrasting it with Walz’s supposed erratic behavior.

Trump’s 'Weird' Comment Sparks Debate

Trump’s use of "weird" to describe Walz sparked responses from media outlets, with the term becoming a talking point. He repeated it several times during his town hall, expressing frustration over the media's focus while reaffirming his belief that Walz’s demeanor was unusual.

"But we're not weird guys; we're very solid people," Trump said, defending himself and Vance.

The Harrisburg event added another layer to the heated race as both candidates shaped their narratives before the upcoming Philadelphia debate. Trump praised support from Walz’s family, adding a personal touch to the contentious campaign.