Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who ran as Kamala Harris’s running mate in their 2024 loss to Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, delivered a fiery speech in South Carolina urging Democrats to toughen up. “Maybe it’s time for us to be a little meaner, a little bit more fierce,” Walz said, adding, “When it’s an adult like Donald Trump, you bully the s**t out of him back,” drawing loud applause.

Walz described Trump as “the existential threat we knew was coming,” warning Democrats of the difficult political road ahead. Despite the call for sharper tactics, he encouraged the party to reclaim its energy, saying, “Damnit, we should be able to have some fun and be joyful,” while reflecting on the 2024 campaign with Harris.

Taking a jab at Trump’s rhetoric, Walz mocked his “big, beautiful bill” phrase, likening it to something a fourth grader might say—then quipped that such a comparison was unfair to his former students. He also praised Kamala Harris as “well-accomplished” and said he wished she were more visible than some current party leaders.

Walz is currently touring key states and was warmly welcomed in South Carolina, where Rep. Jim Clyburn invited him to speak at the state convention and his annual fish fry. While speculation surrounds a 2028 presidential bid, Walz is expected to seek a third term as Minnesota governor as lawmakers finalize the state budget.