John

Last week's Vice Presidential debate was a clear reminder of why we need Governor Tim Walz on the national stage and Walz doesn’t just talk about supporting families, he delivers. His work in Minnesota to ensure every child has access to free, healthy school meals is a blueprint for what governors across the country can do right now.

While JD Vance fumbled through empty MAGA rhetoric, Walz showed what true leadership looks like. In Minnesota, he passed universal free school meals, ensuring that every student, regardless of family income, gets two nutritious meals a day.

The results have been remarkable, demand for school meals has skyrocketed, food insecurity has plummeted, and academic performance has improved. Walz isn’t just campaigning on promises, he’s proven he can get things done.

But here’s the thing, governors don’t have to wait until Walz is Vice President to follow his lead. They can act now to pass free school meals in their own states. This is about every child, from rural to urban areas, getting the support they need to learn, thrive, and grow.

Send a direct message to your governor demanding they pass legislation for free healthy school meals for all students now!

Tim Walz made Minnesota a leader by enacting free school meals for all students, regardless of income. The benefits were immediate, 4.3 million more breakfasts and 4.5 million more lunches served in schools last fall.

Schools reported 30% more students eating lunch and 50% more eating breakfast, meaning fewer kids are going hungry during the school day.

The bottom line is that Governors across America cannot wait until 2025. They can follow Walz’s example now and ensure that every child in their state has access to healthy, nutritious meals at school.

We know the benefits are real, from reduced food insecurity for low-income families to improved academic performance, especially in math, and financial relief for families.

We need to build the momentum to make sure governors act. Tell your Governor to make free school meals a reality now.

Thank you for pushing for free, healthy school meals.

- Amanda

Amanda Ford, Director
Democracy for America
Advocacy Fund