According to the Cato Institute's latest Fiscal Policy Report Card, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has been ranked as the worst governor in the U.S. for fiscal responsibility, earning a score of 19 out of 100 and an 'F' grade. His administration oversaw a dramatic 36% increase in the state's general fund budget, rising from $51.9 billion to $70.5 billion, while also pushing for multiple tax hikes. Notably, the report highlighted his support for legislation that raised taxes on wages to fund a new paid family leave program. In comparison, Maine Governor Janet Mills was ranked third worst, receiving a score of 31 due to high spending increases and a new payroll tax. The Cato Institute's analysis emphasizes a trend among several Democratic governors who scored poorly, with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds leading the rankings at the top. This report comes at a politically sensitive time as Walz is also the running mate of Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming election.