Running for president or joining the ticket as a running mate opens one’s family to scrutiny. As voters get to know the candidate, their family life is often put on full display for the public. The case of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, his wife Gwen, and their two kids, Hope and Gus, is no different.

Many will remember Hope from viral videos she has made with her dad and the touching moment at the Democratic convention when his son was overcome with emotion when he saw his dad take the stage as Kamala Harris' vice presidential candidate.

Tim and Gwen have openly discussed their son Gus’s neurodivergence, describing it as a “secret power.” In an interview with People Magazine, they shared that Gus was diagnosed as a child with a non-verbal learning disorder, ADHD, and an anxiety disorder. It took time for the family to determine the best ways to support Gus and help him succeed in school and beyond. Gus is not alone; millions of Americans share similar diagnoses that affect their learning and working styles. The couple shared with People that though “it took time” it became evident “that Gus’ condition is not a setback — it’s his secret power.”

Non-verbal learning disorders can be managed, and students can overcome their difficulties with methods that may not always be seen in a traditional classroom. For that reason, Governor Walz advocates for a government that supports the neurodivergent community as more is understood about the human brain.

Hope’s viral moments alongside her dad

Hope Walz, the eldest of the two siblings, has been spotted along the campaign trail with her dad. Before her dad was named Kamala Harris' running mate, Hope was often seen with him in short videos for social media. One that has since gone viral features the father-daughter duo at the Minnesota State Fair. Tim asks Hope as if she will want a corndog later; she responds that she is a vegetarian. Tim responds, “Turkey then?” to which Hope says, “Turkey’s meat,” and in very daddy fashion, Tim states, “No, in Minnesota, Turkey is special.”

Hope graduated from Montana State University with honors in 2023 with a degree in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology and a minor in Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies.