By US media reports that Kamala Harris has chosen Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, as her running mate in the upcoming US presidential election. If Harris prevails over Donald Trump in November, Walz will assume the role of vice president.
Walz, a former high school teacher and a seasoned Democrat, has been the governor of Minnesota since 2018. He previously served 12 years in Congress, where he gained recognition for his pragmatic approach and ability to connect with a broad spectrum of voters. Walz’s reputation was bolstered by his response to the 2020 protests following George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis, during which he deployed the National Guard to manage the riots.
Harris reportedly interviewed several top contenders in Washington DC over the weekend and finalized her decision earlier today. The announcement coincides with the start of Harris’s tour of key battleground states, beginning with a rally in Philadelphia where she will officially introduce Walz as her vice-presidential pick.
Walz has attracted national attention for his straightforward criticism of Donald Trump, describing him as “weird” during a fundraising event. This candid style has resonated with many Democrats, including Harris, and has become a recurring theme in her campaign speeches.
At 60 years old, Walz brings a small-town Midwestern persona that could appeal to independent and conservative voters. His military background, having served over 20 years in the Army National Guard, coupled with his experience as a high school teacher and football coach, further enhances his relatable image.
While Minnesota is not typically considered a swing state, Walz’s selection may bolster Harris’s appeal in crucial Midwestern states like Wisconsin and Michigan. His track record of enacting progressive legislation while maintaining a pragmatic approach could attract moderate and independent voters. As a congressman, Walz successfully represented a district with a significant rural and Republican population.
Though not a household name among Democrats until recently, Walz’s selection underscores Harris’s strategic move to tap into Midwestern appeal and strengthen her campaign’s cross-border influence. The Harris-Walz ticket aims to leverage this momentum to secure a victory in the upcoming election.
