Tim Walz vs Collin Peterson

Yesterday, Tim Walz found himself in the awkward position of opposing a bill vital to Minnesota farmers which was supported by none other than his Democratic colleague Collin Peterson. Making the situation even more uncomfortable, Peterson also happens to be the top Democrat on the Agriculture Committee, on which Walz also serves.

The bill, H.R. 1105, the Death Tax Repeal Act, would repeal the federal estate tax, which hits the family-owned farms that make up much of both Walz and Peterson’s districts disproportionately hard, oftentimes forcing heirs of a deceased farm owner to sell off tractors, equipment, and sometimes large parts of the farm itself in order to pay the 40 percent tax.

In fact, the Minnesota Farm Bureau has strongly supported repeal of the estate tax for years, just recently meeting with Walz and Peterson about it during their annual trip to Washington DC.

Why would Walz oppose a bill that is a top priority for farmers all across his district? Did Walz let Collin Peterson know he was going to vote against the bill ahead of time?

NRCC Comment: “Tim Walz knew exactly what he was doing when he voted against repealing the death tax that hurts family-farms all across Minnesota. It is clear Walz’s priorities are out of step with Minnesota farmers, and 1^st District families and small business owners deserve better.” – NRCC Spokesman Zach Hunter