Walz calls for state unity, to join other governors during call with Pence

Monday, Gov. Tim Walz, along with governors across the country, will hear from Vice President Mike Pence.

The video teleconference briefing has been set up to discuss ways to prepare, mitigate, and respond to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Walz will also have calls with the Minnesota Business Partnership and Minnesota Council of Nonprofits.

Walz gave his State of the State address Sunday from the Minnesota Governor’s Residence, as he continues quarantining after being exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19.

Gov. Walz: ‘State of Minnesota is strong,’ one Minnesota will defeat COVID-19

Walz said Minnesota is strong and that Minnesotans together will overcome this outbreak.

"From Rondo to the Range and from North Minneapolis to North Mankato, we are one Minnesota," Walz said. "And a new day will come. The sun will shine. The trees will bud. The birds will sing. Spring will arrive and when it does, we will dig out Minnesota."

Republican leaders praised Walz’s speech but also expressed concerns over the economy. Their message was to allow more Minnesotans chances to get back to work while protecting their health.

"We know Minnesotans are struggling and we are doing our part to respond at the state level," House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt said. "We certainly know and hear Minnesotans’ frustrations that folks are frustrated with the governor’s executive orders and the impact they are having on their livelihoods and businesses."

The governor’s daily media briefing is at 2 p.m. Then, he will meet with the Minnesota Executive Council.

Walz has not yet stated whether he plans to extend his stay at home order, which is set to expire Friday.