The biggest news coming out of the 2024 Democratic National Convention seems to be VP candidate Tim Walz’s son Gus and his enthusiastic reaction to his dad’s speech. Gus Walz, a 17-year-old with a nonverbal learning disorder, ADHD, and an anxiety disorder reacted to his dad’s speech with an emotional and proud exclamation: “That’s my Dad!”
On Wednesday night (Aug 21), Minnesota Governor Tim Walz gave his acceptance speech as the 2024 Vice Presidential candidate before the Democratic National Convention in front of a capacity crowd at the United Center in Chicago. Near the front of the stage, Gov. Walz’s family attended to cheer him on and offer emotional support as the streaming and televised address reached millions. His wife of 30 years, Gwen, daughter, Hope (23), and son, Gus (17), beamed with pride as the former congressman and high school football coach pitched his case for his party’s ticket in the upcoming national election.
Public speaking is a primal fear for most people, so every family member was likely a nervous wreck leading up to the moment, wondering how convincingly the governor would deliver his points and how enthusiastically they would be received. If they did have such concerns, they were all relieved by the conclusion of the remarks. The response from the crowd was thunderous, with chants of “COACH!” as the crowd rose to its feet in celebration. Nearly engulfed by the enthusiastic throng were Gwen, Hope, and Gus.
Hope was frequently mentioned during the rally speeches leading up to the convention, as Gov. Walz gave personal anecdotes about families facing fertility challenges. She’s also a regular contributor to his social media presence and participates in many of the videos his office posts to introduce policies to young voters. Conversely, it was unusual for Gus to be part of the spotlight. Initially, it did not appear to be a comfortable fit.
His posture at the beginning of the speech was pensive, if not defensive. He seemed concerned about how his father would do and how well he would be received. The growing enthusiasm of the audience at his back took him by surprise. Once he was confident the crowd was cheering their support, Gus jumped to his feet also.
He began to point at the podium and mouth the words, “That’s my dad!” He informed the conventioneers behind them, reminded his sister (in case she forgot at that moment), and then waved to the attendees in the rafters. “That’s my dad!”
The tears in his eyes were indicative of love and overwhelming pride. He clapped with gusto and laughed with joy. The family all took the stage together and stood before the country, presenting as a unified front what they offered to bring to the residence adjacent to the highest office in the land.
The next day, Gus Walz received an enormous amount of attention online. Supporters curious about the family history and detractors critical of the 17-year-old young man’s emotional outburst did not require a deep dive to discover Gus’ non-verbal learning disorder, ADHD, and anxiety disorder — all conditions Gov. Walz called his son’s “secret power” as the family addressed the country’s queries in an interview with People magazine.
When talking directly to the press, Tim and Gwen say Gus “is brilliant, hyper-aware of details…and an excellent son and brother to his sibling.” Even with such an impenetrable show of family support, a misguided faction of social media wants to make a target of this kiddo who loves his dad.
ABA Centers of America is dedicated to promoting public acceptance of the autism community and shedding light on advancements in policy. Like Gus, kids with learning disabilities are just kids, each with their strengths and challenges, fears and dreams.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an effective therapy for children and teens who have difficulties learning, developing skills, communicating, or exhibiting unwanted behavior that hinders functioning. We offer autism diagnostic services, early intervention options, and in-home programs, plus we partner with schools nationwide to bring our gold-standard therapy to the classroom.
At ABA Centers of America, we embrace the spotlight as an opportunity to showcase our fun, play-based strategies. ABA therapy is about building up inherent strengths and developing critical life skills, regardless of where our families are from or if their parents are famous.
If your child shows signs of being on the spectrum, we have techniques and programs that can help them take on any challenge that comes their way. Many of our proven strategies can make a meaningful difference for students struggling with a new environment or daily routine.
Connect with ABA Centers of America today by calling (844) 996-4222 or submitting a contact form to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help your family.
We will always provide a safe place for your kiddo to grow.
