Michelle Obama has come to the defense of Gus Walz, the son of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, following backlash from conservative commentators who mocked Gus for showing emotion during his father’s speech at the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC). The former First Lady took to social media to express her support for Gus, who was seen tearing up and cheering on his father during the event.
Gus Walz, 17, became the center of attention during the convention when he was captured on camera applauding, crying, and proudly shouting, “That’s my Dad!” as his father accepted the vice-presidential nomination. The touching moment resonated with many viewers, but it also drew criticism from some conservative figures, including commentator Ann Coulter.
Coulter took to X (formerly Twitter) to post a snide remark about Gus’s emotional display, captioning an article with the words “Talk about weird…”. The post quickly garnered backlash, leading Coulter to delete the comment. Unfortunately, she was not the only one to take aim at Gus, as other critics on social media also mocked the teenager for his heartfelt reaction.
Michelle Obama, known for her advocacy of kindness and empathy, was among those who stepped in to defend Gus. In a tweet shared on the final evening of the DNC, Obama expressed her admiration for the young man’s display of love and pride for his father.
“I was touched to see Gus Walz’s joy when his dad @Tim_Walz took the stage last night. Thankful for you showing us all what real love looks like, Gus,” Obama wrote. “Let’s be a nation that embraces this kind of warmth and vulnerability, instead of making fun or mocking it. We could all use some of Gus’s [examples] in our own lives.”
Actress and comedian Amy Schumer also voiced her support for Gus, posting on Instagram: “I love Tim Walz’s son! If you don’t, please take me out of your phone. Go Kamala! Fired up!”
Gus Walz, who has been diagnosed with nonverbal learning disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anxiety, has often been described by his parents as an extraordinary young man. In a past interview with PEOPLE, Tim Walz and his wife Gwen referred to Gus’s diagnoses as his “superpower,” emphasizing his unique strengths and capabilities.
“It took time, but what became so immediately clear to us was that Gus’ condition is not a setback—it’s his secret power,” the couple said. “He’s brilliant, hyper-aware of details that many of us pass by, and above all else, he’s an excellent son and brother to his sibling.”
The emotional moment that sparked both admiration and criticism occurred when Tim Walz took the stage at the DNC, surrounded by his family. As he gazed at his wife Gwen, his daughter Hope, and his son Gus, he declared, “Hope, Gus, and Gwen, you are my entire world, and I love you.” This heartfelt statement prompted Gus to cheer for his father with tears in his eyes, creating a viral moment that captured the hearts of many.
While the online backlash from conservative voices has been swift, so too has the wave of support for Gus and his family. Many have praised the young man for wearing his heart on his sleeve and showing that love and emotion are strengths, not weaknesses.
In a political climate often marked by divisiveness and harsh rhetoric, the display of genuine affection between father and son at the DNC served as a reminder of the importance of family and the power of vulnerability. As Michelle Obama pointed out, embracing such moments of warmth and connection could help bridge some of the divides that have grown in recent years.
Ultimately, the support from public figures like Michelle Obama and Amy Schumer, as well as countless others online, underscores a growing sentiment that authenticity and emotional honesty should be celebrated, not ridiculed.
