Walz's Vintage Scout II: The Midwest Governor's Unexpected Ride

Tim Walz, the fresh-faced Minnesota governor, has an unlikely automotive companion – a 1979 International Harvester Scout II. This rugged, retro-styled SUV has become a symbol of Walz's down-to-earth persona, capturing the hearts of vintage car enthusiasts and political pundits alike. From his early days as a congressman to his current role as a rising Democratic star, Walz's affection for his beloved Scout has become an integral part of his public image, showcasing his connection to the Midwest and his passion for all things automotive.

A Midwest Governor's Unexpected Ride

The Power of the Scout

The International Harvester Scout II, with its boxy silhouette, chrome grille, and removable soft top, has long been a favorite among vintage SUV enthusiasts. Produced in Fort Wayne, Indiana from 1960 to 1980, the Scout boasts a unique and quirky charm that sets it apart from the more recognizable American automotive brands. Unlike the ubiquitous Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler, the Scout has remained an "underdog" in the vintage off-road market, making Walz's ownership even more intriguing.

Vintage car expert Randy Nonnenberg, co-founder of the automotive auction platform Bring a Trailer, acknowledges the Scout's distinctive appeal. "Scouts are very Midwest, which is very on-brand for Walz," he says, noting that the vehicle's practical yet charming nature perfectly aligns with the governor's public persona. This sentiment is echoed by other Scout enthusiasts, who recognize the level of commitment required to maintain and preserve one of these enduring SUVs.

Software engineer Gary Brown, who has restored and sold numerous Scouts over the years, admires Walz's dedication to his 1979 model. "Anyone who wants to maintain and keep a '79 Scout is not your average person," Brown observes. "It takes someone with a retro or somewhat older mindset ... [who] knows how to tinker." This hands-on approach to car ownership resonates with voters who value self-sufficiency and a willingness to get one's hands dirty.

A Political Statement

Walz's choice of transportation has not gone unnoticed in the political arena. The governor's affiliation with the Democratic party, coupled with his ownership of a rugged, American-made vehicle, has challenged traditional stereotypes. As Brandon Ray, a fellow Scout II owner from Phoenix, remarks, "I just don't picture a blue guy driving a f— Scout."

However, Walz's embrace of the Scout appears to be a calculated move, one that reflects his understanding of the power of automobiles in political narratives. Matt Hardigree, publisher of the Autopian, notes that Walz's social media posts featuring his Scout, along with his canine companion, create an "unhateable image" that resonates with voters. "It is Norman Rockwell transported 50 years into the future," Hardigree observes, underscoring the nostalgia and appeal of Walz's vintage ride.

The governor's commitment to the right-to-repair movement, as evidenced by his signing of Minnesota's Digital Fair Repair Act, further strengthens his connection with the vintage car community. This ethos of self-reliance and a willingness to "fix it yourself" aligns with the hands-on approach required to maintain a Scout, solidifying Walz's image as a pragmatic, blue-collar leader.

The Scout's Resurgence

The return of the Scout nameplate, with Volkswagen's plans to revive the iconic SUV by 2026, adds an intriguing layer to Walz's automotive legacy. While the new Scout will feature modern electric powertrain technology, the original's charm and character will undoubtedly live on. This resurgence of interest in the Scout brand coincides with Walz's political rise, further cementing the vehicle's symbolic importance in his political narrative.

As the new Scout takes shape, the Midwest governor's 1979 model continues to capture the imagination of vintage car enthusiasts and political observers alike. Walz's hands-on approach to maintaining his beloved SUV, combined with his ability to connect with voters through this unexpected automotive choice, has solidified his status as a unique and relatable political figure.

Whether Walz's Scout II will sway any Republican voters remains to be seen, but its impact on his public persona is undeniable. The governor's commitment to his vintage ride, and his willingness to share his automotive passions with the world, have made him a true "car guy" in the eyes of many. As the political landscape evolves, Walz's Scout II may continue to capture the hearts and minds of constituents, serving as a tangible symbol of his Midwestern roots and his enduring connection to the American automotive tradition.