Former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, now president and CEO of Young America’s Foundation, shared sharp criticism of Washington’s spending habits, raised concerns about President Biden’s mental fitness, and highlighted positive signs of pushback against ideological conformity on college campuses.
Walker discussed the ongoing controversy surrounding President Biden’s use of the autopen to sign pardons and commutations. While acknowledging that autopens are sometimes used for ceremonial correspondence, Walker drew a hard line against their use for executive actions involving criminal justice. “You better know exactly who you’re pardoning or commuting,” he said, calling the decision to use an autopen in that context “shocking.” During his time as governor, Walker said he signed every line item of the state budget himself and never issued a pardon, on principle.
He also addressed what he sees as Republicans’ failure to seize opportunities for bold reform, particularly when it comes to cutting federal spending. Referring to the ongoing debate over $9 billion in proposed rescissions—including cuts to foreign aid and funding for public broadcasting—Walker mocked Democratic objections, including Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s claim that Sesame Street programming abroad could help prevent anti-American radicalization. “Go big and go early,” Walker advised, pointing to his own first-term reforms in Wisconsin that faced opposition but ultimately delivered results.
Walker applauded efforts during the Trump administration to reduce the federal workforce and scale back agencies like the Department of Education. With recent court decisions upholding those moves, he said there’s now an opening for Republicans in Congress to push structural reforms, including eliminating the federal Department of Education entirely. He stressed that education decisions should be made at the local level by parents and school boards—not federal bureaucrats.
Turning to his work at Young America’s Foundation, Walker highlighted a recent victory for academic freedom: Michigan State University granting tenure to nematologist Marisol Quintana after her initial denial, which civil rights groups argued was politically motivated. Quintana, who had spoken out against DEI policies, was ultimately recognized for her strong academic record after public pressure and legal intervention.
Walker noted that while there are growing signs of resistance to ideological conformity on campus, challenges remain. He cited a recent Gallup poll showing declining patriotism among Democrats and young Americans, and emphasized the need to educate younger generations on the value of freedom and the principles of America’s founding.
Through YAF’s Freedom at 250 initiative—marking the 250th anniversary of American independence—Walker hopes to reconnect students with those founding ideals. He also pledged continued support for free speech on campuses, saying YAF is prepared to litigate whenever conservative speakers are blocked or shouted down.