Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has returned to the national circuit with a busy schedule, including trips to Spain and Los Angeles for a progressive leaders conference and a nationally televised late-night interview. This activity, along with announcing his book and launching a federal PAC, offers clues about what Walz plans to do after his term ends next year. Despite facing declining approval ratings and scrutiny over his administration's response to fraud in state programs, Walz remains popular with Democrats and Republicans. His vice-presidential bid left him with a strong fundraising list and a steady stream of requests to headline fundraisers and events for Democrats across the country. His upcoming book, which will focus on resistance to the immigration crackdown, is set for release in early 2027. Taxpayers will still be on the hook for some related travel costs. The Minnesota State Patrol spent over $700,000 in state funds to protect the governor from mid-2023 to the end of 2025, data obtained via a public records request shows. The cost of Walz's travel was also revealed, with taxpayers paying for overseas trade missions, family vacations, fundraisers, and speeches before, during and after his 2024 vice presidential bid.