Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.) is calling for transparency from the Pentagon regarding the military service record of Democratic vice-presidential candidate Tim Walz.
According to AXIOS, in a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Banks, a Navy veteran, emphasized the importance of honesty about military service for public officials, particularly those who use their service as a qualification for office.
“The American people deserve transparency into the military records of service-members who serve in public office,” Banks wrote. “Misrepresentation and deceit intended to mislead the public about their service erode the integrity of our military and impact all Americans who choose to serve.”
Banks’ concerns arise as Walz’s military history comes under scrutiny following his selection as Vice President Kamala Harris’s running mate.
Walz served 24 years in the Army National Guard but retired in 2005, just before his unit was mobilized for deployment to Iraq. Some Republicans have criticized the timing of his retirement, suggesting it was intended to avoid deployment.
Read: Jen Psaki Argues Ohio Sen. JD Vance Truly Wants To Be Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz
Despite the controversy, there is no evidence yet that Walz timed his retirement to avoid service in Iraq. Harris’s campaign has defended Walz, highlighting his long military service and his advocacy for veterans during his time in Congress.
“Governor Walz retired in 2005 after 24 years of military service and then ran for Congress, where he chaired Veterans Affairs and was a tireless advocate for our men and women in uniform,” the campaign stated. “As Vice President, he will continue to be a relentless champion for our veterans and military families.”
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